New Orleans Magazine July 2017

WYES-TV PRESENTS ‘A CAPITOL FOURTH’

JULY 2017

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JULY 2017 / VOLUME 51 / NUMBER 9 Editor-in-Chief Errol Laborde Managing Editor Ashley McLellan Art Director Tiffani Reding Amedeo Contributing Editor Liz Scott Monaghan Food Edit­or Dale Curry Dining Edit­or Jay Forman Wine and Spirits Edit­or Tim McNally Restaurant Reporter Robert Peyton Home Editor Lee Cutrone Web Editor Kelly Massicot Staff Writers Jessica DeBold, Melanie Warner Spencer Intern Marie Simoneaux Vice President of Sales Colleen Monaghan Sales Manager Kate Sanders Henry (504) 830-7216 / Kate@MyNewOrleans.com Senior Account Executive Lisa Picone Love, Jessica Marasco Account Executives Claire Cummings, Peyton Simms

Director of Marketing and Events Cheryl Lemoine Event Coordinator Whitney Weathers Digital Media Associate Mallary Matherne For event information call (504) 830-7264 Production Manager Jessica DeBold Production Designers Monique DiPietro, Demi Schaffer, Molly Tullier Traffic Coordinator Terra Durio Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne President Alan Campell Executive Vice President Errol Laborde Distribution Manager John Holzer Administrative Assistant Mallary Matherne Subscriptions Manager Brittanie Bryant

WYES DIAL 12 STAFF (504) 486-5511 Executive Editor Aislinn Hinyup Associate Editor Robin Cooper Art Director Jenny Hronek

NEW ORLEANS MAGAZINE

Printed in USA A Publication of Renaissance Publishing 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005 Subscriptions: (504) 830-7231 MyNewOrleans.com

New Orleans Magazine (ISSN 0897 8174) is published monthly by Renaissance Publishing, LLC., 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005; (504) 828-1380.

Subscription rates: one year $19.95; Mexico, South America and Canada $48; Europe, Asia and Australia $75. An associate subscription to New Orleans Magazine is available by a contribution of $40 or more to WYES-TV/Channel 12, $10.00 of which is used to offset the cost of publication. Also available electronically, on CD-ROM and on-line.

Periodicals postage paid at Metairie, LA, and additional entry offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to New Orleans Magazine, 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005. Copyright 2017 New Orleans Magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher. The trademark New Orleans and New Orleans Magazine are registered. New Orleans Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and artwork even if accompanied by a selfaddressed stamped envelope. The opinions expressed in New Orleans Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the magazine managers or owners.

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contents

56 FEATURES

IN EVERY ISSUE

56

Eat. Drink. Enjoy.

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Inside

By Jay Forman, Tim McNally, Robert Peyton

“Fish on the Half Shell”

74

Mr. Rose’s Wild Ride

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Speaking Out

By Chris Rose

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Julia Street

Our 2017 Best New Restaurants

On his magical talking and walking tour through the French Quarter

Editorial, plus a Mike Luckovich cartoon

Questions and answers about our city

134 Try This

“Take Me to Church”

136 Streetcar

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“Krauss - Before the Condos”

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ON THE COVER

Fried Rock Shrimp Tacos from Meril, one of our Best New Restaurant picks for 2017, starting on pg. 56.

Photographed by Denny Culbert

contents

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THE BEAT

LOCAL COLOR

THE MENU

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80

Table Talk

“Codebreaker”

44

Joie d’Eve

82

Restaurant Insider

“Harrison Avenue Boom”

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In Tune

Education

84

Read & Spin

Food

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A look at the latest albums and books

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Last Call

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Dining Guide

Marquee

Entertainment calendar

Persona

Writer Tom Sancton

Biz

“Top of the Class”

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Health

“Recipe for Disaster”

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Healthbeat

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“Water Fall”

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Modine’s New Orleans

“War Cry”

“July Jammin’”

Jazz Life

“A Melodic Zone”

“Jamaica Style”

News From the Kitchens: Port Orleans and Stokehold, Brasa Churrasqueria, + Blake’s on Poydras

“Eating Local”

Angeline’s Gimlet

Home

“Family Tradition”

Chronicles

“Legacy of Nature”

DIAL 12, D1

Kick off our country’s 241st birthday as WYES-TV/Channel 12 presents A CAPITOL FOURTH on Tuesday, July 4th at 7pm & 8:30 p.m.

Watch the all-star musical extravaganza live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. A not-to-be-missed television event, WILD ALASKA LIVE, captures life and survival in the Alaskan Wilderness in three-parts on July 23, 26 and 30 at 7p.m. The event is hosted

by Emmy Award®-winning zoologists, adventurers and brothers Chris Kratt and Martin Kratt.

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inside

Fish on the Half Shell

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I was in Houston for a weekend when I first discovered a menu listing for a dish called “Redfish on the Half Shell.”

We’ve heard, of course, of Oysters on the Half-shell, but that made sense because the bi-valves fit the shell that they grew up in. But redfish? What shell?

A waiter explained that the dish was actually a sliced whole redfish cooked on the grill in its own skin, which is grill side down.

In this, our annual best new restaurant issue, we look at oncoming places doing adventurous things, so I pause to note this new dish, at least to me, that seems to have been popularized in Texas but is probably heading our way.

I might have forgotten about the half-shell fish except that the next night, in a different restaurant, also in Houston, I saw it on a menu again.

It is served sizzling, hot off the grill, usually with some sort of bubbling sauce drizzled on it.

Texas, by act of its legislature, has proclaimed the redfish to be the state’s “Official Saltwater Fish.” Louisiana, however, is the state from which the species in its most demanded form, blackened, originated. The dish was so popular it almost depleted the Gulf of Mexico. There are recipes on the internet by local chefs, including John Besh

and Donald Link, but grilling is such a part of Texas cuisine that plopping a fish on the grate seems natural.

Texas Monthly even deals with the topic on its website pointing out that the fish’s skin is so tough and scaly that cooks resisted peeling it and just put it on the fire. (Think of our own local Chargrilled Oyster, with the hard side down and sauce on top.)

My hunch is that the dish is making a gradual entry into the New Orleans market.

I have seen it locally on the menu of one of our featured Best New Restaurants, Margie’s Grill, where it is described as “Coal Roasted Gulf Fish” with the explanation that it is prepared on the “1/2 shell” with a “garlic-herb sauce.”

By referring to “gulf fish” the chef has the option of using different critters from the sea.

(The night I was there the fish du jour was the tripletail, also known to its friends as the blackfish.)

As new restaurants open, food selections expand and now we know that fish can be served on the half-shell. Just remember though that, with the exception of barbecue, anything that originated in Texas tastes better in Louisiana.

on the web

New Orleans Magazine is on the web, are you?

Follow New Orleans Magazine on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest for all of the latest in New Orleans cuisine, music and more.

Make sure to sign up for the daily MyNewOrleans.com newsletter, too. Be the first to read our blogs, get the 411 on top events around the city and see the features and columns from all seven of our publications all in one place.

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2016 Press Club of New Orleans Winners

Lifetime Achievement Award: Errol Laborde Cartoon: Mike Luckovich Column: “Me Again,” Chris Rose Special Section – Writing: “People to Watch,” Tiffani Reding Amedeo and Morgan Packard 16

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meet our sales team

Kate Sanders Henry

Sales Manager (504) 830-7216 Kate@myneworleans.com

Lisa Picone Love

Senior Account Executive (504) 830-7263 Lisa@myneworleans.com

Jessica Marasco

Senior Account Executive (504) 830-7220 JessicaM@myneworleans.com

Claire Cummings

Account Executive (504) 830-7250 Claire@myneworleans.com

Peyton Simms

Account Executive (504) 830-7249 Peyton@myneworleans.com

Colleen Monaghan

Vice President of Sales (504) 830-7215 Colleen@myneworleans.com

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speaking out

The Monuments

What the national media misunderstood In their praise of Mayor Mitch Landrieu for removing the confederate monuments we learned this about the national media—they saw the issue as black and white—a throwback civil rights issue. From their perspective, determining right from wrong was not difficult.

The monuments had to go.

For many locals though, it was an entirely different issue. It had nothing to do with race, the Civil War, states rights, certainly not black versus white. To many locals, especially those who grew up here, it was about the backdrop of their lives—the streetscape that was part of their experience. Preservation is not nearly as titillating of a topic to The New York Times as is race. Given the national media’s passion for seeking long-range presidential contenders this played into their hands.

Away from the spotlight, there could have been a compromise that would have made a statement but still left some historic dignity.

The Beauregard statue should have been kept in place. With Lee, Davis and Liberty Place gone there could be be no doubt of the city’s attitude, but even The New York Times, NBC and Rachel Maddow might have understood that Beaure-

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gard was different in that he was local, a postwar advocate of integration and his statue was a fine piece of art. Places do not often have monuments to individuals on the losing side, but New Orleans was part of the war. We are a crossroads to history. Beauregard was part of the story.

In the mayor’s speech, made on the day that the Lee monument was removed, he declared that “The Civil War is over.” Both the national and local media gave prominence to that statement despite it having already been declared many times through the decades beginning at Appomattox. What it really refers to is important moments in racial interaction. Orators could have proclaimed the Civil War’s end on many occasions over the decades including the following: • In 1964 when the federal Civil Rights bill was passed.

• In 1967, when the federal voting rights bills were passed.

•Throughout the 1960s when New Orleans became a black majority city.

• From 1970 to ’78, when Mayor Moon Landrieu, the current mayor’s father, integrat-

ed city government.

• In 1979 when Dutch Morial became the city’s first black mayor beginning a succession of four black mayors.

• During that same time period when the council had a black majority, except for a brief time after Hurricane Katrina.

• In everyday life as blacks and whites increasingly interact.

Truth is, when racial tension is at its worst it is frequently because it is stirred up by City Hall.

All sides in this issue have been hindered by extremists such as selfproclaimed anarchists warring for the statues removal or Confederate soldier holdovers making their case for keeping the statues. Neither extreme represents the ideals of the people in the middle who truly care about the city.

Before all this started there was no cry for removing the monuments. Now the issue has become a source of tension. From the beginning this issue was based on what the mayor wanted.

There was never a legitimate debate. Finding common ground might not excite the national media, but it would be good for the city. n

AN ORIGINAL ©MIKE LUCKOVICH CARTOON FOR NEW ORLEANS MAGAZINE

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julia street | WITH POYDRAS THE PARROT THE PURSUIT TO ANSWER ETERNAL QUESTIONS

Diamond Jim Moran, Rocky Marciano, and three unidentified men at Jimmy Moran’s La Louisiane restaurant

Dear Julia, In 1956, my mom’s graduating class took their senior trip to New Orleans via rail.

They went to nearby Sallisaw, Oklahoma and boarded the Southern Belle, which was Kansas City Southern’s passenger train that connected Kansas City to New Orleans. Not only was it exciting to be riding a passenger train for the first time, but New Orleans would be the first big city she had ever visited. She even purchased a skirt with scenes of Paris on it to wear since she would be visiting America’s most French city. She fondly recalls the time her class had in the Big Easy.

They took a bus tour of the city and toured the French Quarter, where her best friend’s portrait was drawn by one of the street artists. Because they were from Oklahoma, her friend’s Native American ancestry gave her a unique, exotic look. They also toured City Park and had a picnic among the live oaks dripping with Spanish moss. I am familiar with all of these locations but she has mentioned a dining experience at Diamond Jim’s restaurant, which was their one sit22

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down restaurant experience in the city. I’ve been unable to find out anything about this restaurant. Obviously it no longer exists, but does she have the name right? If so, when was it in business, where was it located and what is located there now? I know my mom would love to know about the history of the restaurant since this trip was a special time during her youth.

Robert Wilson Muldrow, Oklahoma Established in the 19th century and formerly associated with the Alciatore family of restaurateurs, La Louisiane had an established reputation for fine dining and well-known guests. When the restaurant changed hands in 1954, there were some new attractions on the menu – a largerthan life owner who was born James Brocato but better known as “Diamond Jim” Moran and the diamond-studded meatballs diners occasionally found on their plates.

The 1957 photograph accompanying

this column was taken inside La Louisiane the year following your mom’s visit. It shows Diamond Jim in all his glittery glory, sporting a mink tie, jewel-encrusted horseshoe-framed glasses and a bedazzled dental appliance. The less shiny gentleman seated in front of him is boxer Rocky Marciano.

“Diamond Jim” passed away in 1958 at the age of 61. Following his demise, his sons took over, selling in 1978 to Joseph Marcello, Jr. and Nick Mosca who revived at La Louisiane the menu of their Elmwood Plantation restaurant. 725 Iberville has since changed hands. The name La Louisiane has survived and the renovated site currently operates as a meeting and event location.

Julia Street, As a young boy growing up in the St. Thomas Housing Development we often went to Magazine Street for retail shops, movies, etc. I have fond memories of going to the Happy Hour theatre, the Dairy Queen, Baehr’s Bakery and Sciortino’s poultry market.

On occasion my parents used to visit the various bars and dance places that lined Magazine Street between Jackson Avenue and St. Andrew Street.

One in particularly comes to mind: the Fun House. My question is do you have any information on the Fun House?

What was its exact address, when was it established, how long did it stay in business, etc. Any help you can give would be greatly appreciated.

Adrian Deshotel Skillman, NJ

photo Courtesy of The Historic New Orleans Collection Gift of the Estate of Todd Claxton

Around 1958, Lionel N. Acy opened Acy’s Fun House at 2104 Magazine Street, which operated under that name until about 1962. The bar then changed hands multiple times before Lance J. Stark took over, renaming it Lance’s Fun House.

On the night of January 27, 1964, an explosion and fire of unknown origin gutted the Fun House and damaged the adjacent Garden of Italy restaurant and Joe’s Discount Store. The bar soon reopened at 2100 Magazine, next door to its former location.

It seems to have originally featured music and dancing, but details are scant.

Lance Stark’s original Fun House cocktail lounge, 2100 Magazine Street at Josephine Street, existed from about 1964 to 1973. In its latter years, it was a popular boxing location where the Viking Athletic Club hosted amateur bouts. By the summer of 1972, the Fun House was offered for sale or lease as a country and western club with a capacity of 250.

Under Kire C. Mitchell’s management, the short-lived New Fun House cocktail lounge operated for about two years. The premises then remained empty until a salvage shop opened there in the late 1970s.

Dear Julia and Poydras, As native born Yats, and kids in the ‘50s, my sisters and I would walk the stretch of Franklin Avenue from a few blocks riverside of the then Capdau Jr. High School building up to Gentilly Boulevard. On many of the sidewalk panels (likely still there), “LCCO” was stamped.

In addition to yelling out “Step on a crack, break your mother’s back,” we always competed

to be first to call out “LCCO.” I’d always assumed that this was Louisiana Concrete Company, but alas, Google hasn’t helped.

Got anything on this?

Mike Carroll, New Orleans Poydras flew through that part of Gentilly but did not find the LCCO lettering.

Since your youth, tree roots, post-Katrina levee failures, scattered repairs and ADArelated curb modifications have significantly altered how the sidewalks originally looked. While some parts appear to be in good repair, others remain severely cracked and uneven.

It is reasonable to presume that LCCO was an acronym for the firm the city contracted to pour the sidewalks. However, there are numerous companies whose names begin with “Louisiana Concrete” including Louisiana Concrete Products, which operated on France Road. n

Win a restaurant gift certificate t

Here is a chance to eat, drink and have your curiosity satiated all at once. Send Julia a question. If we use it, you’ll be eligible for a monthly drawing for a Jazz Brunch for two at The Court of Two Sisters. To take part, send your question to: Julia Street, c/o New Orleans Magazine, 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005 or email: Errol@MyNewOrleans.com. This month’s winners are Adrian Deshotel, Skillman, NJ and Robert Wilson, Muldrow, OK.

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The Beat MARQUEE | PERSONA | BIZ | EDUCATION | HEALTH | CRIME FIGHTING | CHRONICLES

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persona, PG. 28

“My litereary agent suggested a book. I stupidly said ‘eighteen months’ when asked about a delivery date...I had to do an incredible amount of research and more than 60 interviews.”

greg miles photograph

THE BEAT | marquee

July Events

By Fritz Esker

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TOP PICKS

Welcome to Night Vale

David Blaine

Tales of the Cocktail

For those unfamiliar with the show, Welcome to Night Vale is a twice-monthly podcast in the style of community updates for the small town of Night Vale, a desert community rife with supernatural events. The show is rich with dark humor and New Orleanians can see a live performance of it at the Civic Theater on July 12. Tickets and information, CivicNOLA.com.

Groundbreaking magician David Blaine is embarking on his first-ever North American tour. On July 16th, he’ll be taking his show to the Saenger Theater. No two performances on the 40-city tour will be the same and his magic is guaranteed to both shock and amuse audiences. Tickets and information, SaengerNOLA.com.

The international spirits industry will come to New Orleans from July 18-23 for seminars, events, and tastings at this year’s Tales of the Cocktail. One of the highlights is The New Orleans Cocktail Tour, which gives participants a tour of the French Quarter and a history of the bars and cocktails that influenced bars around the country. Tickets and information, TalesOfTheCocktail.com.

t CALENDAR

Jun 1-Oct 1 New at NOMA: Recent Acquisitions in Modern and Contemporary Art, New Orleans Museum of Art. Information, Noma.org Jun 1- Jul 9 Beyond the Canvas: Contemporary Art from Puerto Rico, Newcomb Museum. Information, NewcombArtMuseum.tulane.edu Jun 29-Jul 2 ESSENCE Festival, Mercedes-Benz Superdome.

Information, Essence.com/Festival-2017 Jul 4 Independence Day French Quarter Fireworks, French Quarter.

Information, Go4thOnTheRiver.com Jul 7-21 New Orleans Shakespeare Festival at Tulane Presents

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The Tempest, Lupin Theater. Information, NewOrleansShakespeare.org Jul 8 Roger Waters - Us + Them Tour, Smoothie King Center. Information, SmoothieKingCenter.com Jul 12 Welcome to Night Vale, Civic Theater. Information, CivicNOLA.com Jul 12 New Orleans Shakespeare Festival at Tulane - Play Reading Series: Othello, Lupin Theater. Information, NewOrleansShakespeare.org Jul 13 New Orleans Shakespeare Festival at Tulane Presents Shakespeare Movie Night, Lupin Theater. Information, NewOrleansShakespeare.org

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SPOTLIGHT

plastic bats. The 11th annual celebration is from July 7-9 (the run itself is on the 8th).

Are there any new features to this year’s San Fermin?

San Fermin en Nueva Orleans

New Orleans Running of the Bulls founder Mickey Hanning speaks about this year’s event.

Have you ever wanted to run with the bulls, but blanched either at the cost of a plane ticket to Spain or the thought of being gored by a bull? If so, San Fermin en Nueva Orleans (NOLAbulls.com) is for you. Roller derby girls chase revelers through the streets with

We’ve got two new acts at the after-party…DJ RQ Away will open things up and the Zydepunks are back in New Orleans after years away! We’ve been asking them to play for us for years, and this year I almost didn’t make my obligatory inquiry.

Decided to keep the traditions going and was shocked with a quick “Yes, I think we can this year!”

How would you sell it to someone who’s never attended it? It’s the

most fun you can have before 9 a.m. anywhere in the world. You get to enjoy a city that adores pageantry, lunacy and

cocktails and be home by noon having experienced a weekend’s worth of fun…all for just $40.

When you first started it, did you ever imagine it would get as big as it has? No chance. When

we discussed it back in ’07, I said I’d be happy if 50 people showed up.

200 did. I thought in its heyday, we’d be about 300 strong. In year two, we got 700.

Is it for all ages or should it be adults only? By

design it was for adults, but we’ve made it more family friendly. We don’t encourage anyone under 10 to run in the streets with that many people around. As for the afterparty, it’s really geared for adults, but I don’t think it’s harmful…to bring the kids. n

Jul 13-23 The Little Mermaid, Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts.

Information, RivertownTheaters.com

Jul 22-23 Big Easy Rollergirls - Sweat Fest 2017, Lakefront Arena.

Information, arena.uno.edu

Jul 14 Bastille Day Fete, New Orleans Museum of Art. Information, BastilleDayNOLA.com

Jul 25 Idina Menzel, Saenger Theater. Information, SaengerNOLA.com

Jul 15 The Victory Belles, The Stage Door Canteen. Information, NationalWW2Museum.org Jul 19 New Orleans Shakespeare Festival at Tulane Presents

By Any Scenes Necessary, Lupin Theater. Information, NewOrleansShakespeare.org

Craig Mulcahy photograph

Jul 27 Meek Mill & Yo Gotti: Against All Odds Tour, Lakefront Arena.

Information, arena.uno.edu Jul 28 Sabrina Carpenter, Saenger Theater. Information, SaengerNOLA.com Jul 29 The Blind Sensation of Comedy - Blowfish Jacobs, Lakefront Arena. Information, arena.uno.edu

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THE BEAT | PERSONA

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at a glance

Age: 68. Occupation: Writer/Musician Resides: Paris, France, and New Orleans.

Born: Jackson, Mississippi. Education: Benjamin Franklin High School, New Orleans; Harvard, B.A.; Oxford University, Ph D. in History. Favorite Book: Under the Volcano by Malcolm Lowry Favorite Movie: Round Midnight by Bertrand Tavernier Favorite TV Show: “Leave it to Beaver” Favorite food: Steak tartare, served very spicy, with pomme frites. Favorite restaurant: Mariza.

Tom Sancton Writer, Jazz Musician

By Jason Berry

Tom Sancton grew up in New Orleans in the 1960s, and in high school learned jazz clarinet from George Lewis and other musicians at Preservation Hall. In fall 1967 he entered Harvard as a freshman; four years later he won a Rhodes Scholarship to Oxford

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University. He became a journalist, based for many years in Paris as Time’s bureau chief.

In 1997, Sancton covered the automobile accident in which Princess Diana was killed. He and a Time colleague, Scott MacLeod, wrote a best

seller, Death of a Princess.

He left Time in 2001 to write other books and work as a freelancer.

Like many people changed by Hurricane Katrina, Sancton was pulled back to New Orleans to assist his aging parents; he ended up staying, revitalizing his jazz career, recording with Lars Edegran and others. In 2006 he published Song for my Fathers, a memoir of the complex relationship with his father, and his years of learning at Preservation Hall. “A newly minted classic,” wrote Susan Larson in the Times-Picayune, “filled with grace and gratitude.”

For several years he taught writing at Tulane. His wife, Sylvaine Sancton, is an accomplished artist.

Sancton’s new book appears in August. The Bettencourt Affair follows the saga of Liliane Bettencourt, 94, heiress to the L’Oreal cosmetics fortune and the world’s wealthiest woman. Her daughter, Françoise Bettencourt Meyers, sued to gain control of the wealth after Liliane showered huge sums on François-Marie Banier, a writer-photographer and much younger gay man whom she adored. The legal actions exposed a seamy world of money-grubbing French politicians.

greg miles PHOTOGRAPH

Q: How did you get into this story? In 2010 there was a media feeding frenzy in Paris over “the Bettencourt Affair.”

It was such a rich story with family drama and this flamboyant character in Banier.

Liliane gave him hundreds of millions of dollars. Her daughter got fed up and sued him for elder abuse.

In the French system, magistrates investigate and decide whether to send a case to trial. The media coverage had a political subplot.

President Nicolas Sarkozy was accused of getting illegal campaign funds from the Bettencourt fortune, which prompted comparisons to Watergate. Sarkozy lost a reelection bid.

All this was bubbling up in 2010 when I wrote a piece on the case for Vanity Fair.

It took five years to wend through the justice system.

In 2015 my literary agent suggested a book. I stupidly said “eighteen months” when asked about a delivery date.

Writing 100,000 words is one thing. I had to do an incredible amount of reading, archival research and more than 60 interviews.

Q: After many years in

France, did you learn anything new about the country? The lingering aftershocks of World War II still ripple through French society. Liliane’s father was a Nazi collaborator in the war and created a huge fortune building L’Oreal. A deep fault line in French society runs between collaborators and the Resistance. What I learned in doing the book re-enforced that. The family fortune financed the career of André Bettencourt, Liliane’s husband, a mediocre man who donated huge sums to candidates and parties for

decades. He was given cabinet positions in conservative governments, decorated with the Legion of Honor, yet he wrote horrible anti-Semitic diatribes for a pro-German paper during the war.

Finally, there was the extravagance of characters like Banier --one of the “beautiful people” close to Salvador Dali, President François Mitterrand and, recently, Johnny Depp. He collected people and they collected him. He’s like the character of Balzac’s The Human Comedy, Eugène de Rastignac, a quintessential social striver from the provinces, ruthlessly ambitious, who wants to be darling of Parisian society.

Banier had done three best selling novels by age 25. I don’t want to give away the ending, but he was very accessible to me. Liliane was very rich but unfulfilled and bored when he arrived in 1987 for a magazine photo shoot. She fell for him and he saw the advantage of a platonic affair. He did have affection for her. He opened the world of arts, theatre and auction houses to Lilane, introduced her to fascinating people and gave her a new lease on life when she was tremendously depressed. Under the guise of patronage, she gave him a colossal fortune. n

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true confession

As an aspiring kid clarinetist, I used to fantasize about playing an opening act for the Beatles.

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THE BEAT | BIZ

Harrison Avenue Boom A commercial powerhouse in Lakeview

By Kathy Finn

Take a look at New Orleans neighborhoods that have thrived over time, and at their center you will likely see a vibrant commercial core that helped fuel their growth. Consider for instance, how the proliferating restaurants and other businesses along Freret and Magazine streets have buoyed the neighborhoods of Uptown. Or think of the bustling activity along Frenchmen Street that boosted the popularity of the Marigny district.

Similarly, for people in Lakeview, one of the city’s largest neighborhoods, it would be hard to overstate the value of the area’s business centers. Harrison Avenue, whose commercial section cuts a mile-long swath across Lakeview’s rectangular grid, has for decades supported residential development with grocery stores, restaurants and services, as has the retail hub at Robert E. Lee and West End boulevards, at the northern end of Lakeview. Activity has proliferated in both areas during the last 10 years, helping to propel an impressive post-Hurricane Katrina comeback

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of the entire neighborhood.

The rapid expansion of commercial activity along Harrison Avenue has been particularly noticeable, as it has dramatically changed the look of the corridor. Some might label the avenue’s remake as a gentrification, and indeed, the stretch between Canal Boulevard and City Park has taken a quaint turn, with new brick sidewalks, street lamps and landscaped pathways that wind through the neutral ground.

But more important than the cosmetic changes is the business growth that has occurred. At least a dozen restaurants and cafés that operate on Harrison today did not exist there before Katrina. The food choices run the gamut from fried chicken and high-end donuts to upscale Mexican fare, nouveau cuisine and white-tablecloth bistros. Lakeview residents who wish to patronize eating and drinking establishments in their own neighborhood today have plenty of choices within a short walk or drive.

Shopping in the area has taken an upward turn as well. Several chic clothing boutiques

have opened along Harrison in recent years to join the Little Miss Muffin gift shop that took a pioneering step onto the avenue shortly after Katrina. Newcomers include Gia’s Boutique, Carpe Diem Boutique Salon and Clothing, Shop Angelique and Swoon.

The availability of grocery stores played a crucial role in Lakeview’s post-Katrina comeback, and grocer Marc Robert filled the need by reopening Robert Fresh Market in the Robert E. Lee shopping center and replacing another grocery on Harrison Avenue with Lakeview Fine Foods.

Those moves encouraged the development of additional retail offerings near both stores.

Underlying Lakeview’s vibrancy and its ability to bounce back from devastation is its relatively high level of personal wealth. The neighborhood has long been home to a middle- and upper middle-class resident population. It was their personal assets that led a few of the area’s largest financial institutions to set up shop on Harrison Avenue decades ago and lured more banks in recent years.

cheryl gerber PHOTOGRAPH

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Dining on Harrison

A selection of eateries that have opened on Harrison Avenue during the last 10 years: • Another Broken Egg Café • Backyard • Cava • Chaps Chicken • Dixie Chicken & Ribs (Argonne Boulevard at Harrison) • El Gato Negro • Koz’s Lakeview • Lakeview Burgers & Seafood • Lakeview Harbor • Lakeview Pearl Sushi Bar & Asian Bistro • Mondo • Pizza Nola and Bawk!

Breakfast • Reginelli’s Pizzeria • Rizzuto’s • Steak Knife • Velvet Cactus (Argonne Boulevard at Harrison) Chase Bank and Whitney National Bank reopened large branches on Harrison after the flood, as did Gulf Coast Bank & Trust. Thennew First NBC Bank also built a large office on Harrison, though the bank recently fell on hard times and was acquired by Whitney. Institutions operating branches elsewhere in Lakeview include Capital One, Regions Bank and Fidelity Bank.

The newest addition to financial services in the neighborhood appears to be Fifth District Savings & Loan, which plans to build a new branch, with adjacent retail or office space, in the 400 block of Harrison Avenue.

Meanwhile, data from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. show that bank branches in Lakeview held a total of more than $800 million in deposits in mid-2016, up 11 percent from total deposits

just before Katrina.

All of which helps explain the proliferation of businesses during the past decade.

Few, if any, flooded-out structures remain in Lakeview as residents and business owners have renovated or rebuilt on nearly every available lot.

Along with retail stores, dry cleaners and fitness centers located in the main commercial corridors, the neighborhood saw a revival of interest in Lakeshore Drive by restauranteurs, resulting in the opening of eateries such as Landry’s, Brisbi’s and Blue Crab. A Chinese restaurant called Ming’s opened near the stalwart Russell’s Marina Grill. And closer to the center of the neighborhood, 2016 brought the opening just off Canal Boulevard of Rosedale, by well-known chef Susan Spicer, who also owns Mondo, on Harrison Avenue. And most recently opened is Rizzuto’s restaurant, which replaced Tony Angello’s at the corner of Harrison Avenue and Fleur de Lis Drive.

In New Orleans, the health of some neighborhoods is reflected in their turnout for public events, and one that has shown staying power since its Lakeview launch in 2007 is the Harrison Avenue Marketplace. The monthly early-evening event, which bills itself as the first-ever outdoor market in Lakeview, regularly draws hundreds of people to shop dozens of arts, crafts and food booths and enjoy live music with their families.

Anchored in the parking lot of the Lakeview Fine Foods grocery store, the market further boosts interest in the growing number of restaurants and other businesses that have squeezed onto Harrison Avenue during the past decade. n

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THE BEAT | education

Top of the Class

KIPP educator earns national acclaim

By Dawn Wilson

With only three days left of the school year, Kathryn Hurley stands before a class of second graders and conducts one last exercise. Her charges, dressed in the navy and khaki uniforms of KIPP Central City Primary charter school, look at the papers in front of them. One girl sucks her thumb.

Hurley urges them to “break the code” – to match a letter grid to words that spell out a question. They must answer it in three complete sentences. It’s half game, half academics. It’s all leading to third grade literacy.

Hurley, recently recognized as a finalist for the prestigious Fishman Prize for outstanding teaching, paces the semi-circle of tiny desks sporting a pair of black sunglasses atop twisted-up thick hair.

She’s all business.

“I’m missing a pair of eyes,” she says and ticks off a name. She points two fingers in the direction of a child and returns them to point

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at her own eyes.

The children start writing out their questions. One asks: What would you like to tell your teacher? Asked to answer aloud, Chastity reveals a budding future in sales or diplomacy: “I would like to tell Ms. Hurley she’s cute.”

Another question asks: Name some of the things you learned this year. A girl named Paige writes: “I learned to find my matching evidence.”

These second graders have spent three hours a day with Hurley for nine months honing their reading skills and learning the basics of essay writing. They go into the third grade knowing how to write a thesis, or point of view, and how to pick out textual evidence to support their claims. Paige even spelled the word “evidence” correctly on the second try.

A Tulane University graduate, by way of

New Jersey, Hurley started out as a kindergarten teacher. Now in her seventh year of teaching, five at KIPP Central City, she has shifted to second grade.

“I’m obsessed with second grade,” she says. “I’m still the coolest person in the room.”

She’s always obsessed with teaching literacy, a honed skill that led a colleague to nominate her for the Fishman Prize, a prestigious national award that recognizes teachers for “superlative classroom practice.”

Of 800 applications, Hurley was one of 101 applicants asked to submit classroom videos and references, says TNTP, a New York-based non-profit dedicated to supporting quality teaching in public schools.

Of those, Hurley was one of 21 semi-finalists selected for unannounced classroom visits. cheryl gerber PHOTOGRAPH

Only nine, including Hurley, were selected for interviews, TNTP says.

“Ms. Hurley definitely deserves the recognition,” says KIPP Central City Primary School Leader Korbin Johnson. “If I could get a Katie Hurley in every classroom, it would be great.”

In the classroom, Hurley focuses on relationshipbuilding, the importance of friendship and empathy skills. She uses material that students can “integrate” into their own lives.

Her TNTP bio says that she recently assigned students to write opinion pieces, including letters to New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu in favor of removing the city’s monuments of Civil War figures.

When she began teaching at KIPP Central City, the bio says, the school’s goal was that 75 percent of kindergarten students would reach grade-level in language arts. Hurley’s students were the first to reach that goal. The next two years, 100 percent of her students reached grade-level, TNTP says, and 75 percent exceeded KIPP’s national grade level standards.

Hurley teaches language arts to classes of about 28.

With the help of a teaching aide, she focuses on reading skills, phonetics, textual comprehension, and writing. She stresses content that develops the idea that “people matter,” she says.

In workshops, Hurley says students “talk about how books will change us, how people change us.”

She chooses stories that focus on unlikely friendships such as Frog and Toad, a tale about the bond between a friendly frog

and a serious toad. Another favorite text is Henry and Mudge, the story of a boy’s friendship with a burly street dog. She also focuses on family themes, such as the one found in Langston Hughes’ poem “Mother to Son.” Students also learn about social activism. After reading about homeless people needing dry socks, her students raised $250 to buy pairs of socks. They stuffed the socks with travel-sized hygiene products such as toothpaste and toothbrushes to donate to a homeless shelter. In another project, her students made rag toys for shelter dogs, she says.

As a KIPP curriculum developer, she shares these classroom lessons with other second grade teachers in the organization’s national network of charter schools.

All these teaching skills won Hurley a place in the group of nine finalists for the Fishman Prize. Only four, however, were chosen for $25,000 awards and spots in TNTP’s summer residency program. She wasn’t chosen for the cash prize, but she says the six-month process enriched her teaching by pushing her to reflect on classroom methods.

“Sometimes you hit, not a rut, but a stride,” she says of classroom teachers. “We ask kids to be lifelong learners, and sometimes we forget to be life-long learners.”

Even though she didn’t win $25,000, which she had hoped to use to buy a house, the experience was “incredible,” Hurley says. “It reaffirmed my belief that teaching is the best job in the world.” n myneworleans.com JULY 2017

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THE BEAT | health

Recipe for Disaster Filling station food and botulism

By Brobson Lutz M.D.

A service station fueling both vehicles and tummies was Ground Zero for a deadly foodborne outbreak in California last April. It happened near Sacramento. At least ten persons who ate filling station nachos doused with cheese sauce had emergency hospitalizations. One died. The culprit was botulism, the deadliest of all foodborne illnesses.

California health officials zeroed in on the jalapeño cheese sauce. The filling station had several five pound pouches of this yellow cheese goo. An opened bag tested positive for botulism toxin, but other unopened bags at the station and elsewhere all tested negative. Federal inspectors gave the cheese production facility in Wiscon-

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sin a clean bill of health. The county cited the filling station for “failure to protect food from contamination,” but how the cheese sauce became contaminated remains a whodunit.

Hopefully what happened in California stays in California. This was not their first rodeo. A botulism outbreak from improperly processed ripe olives caused 19 deaths in 1919 due to a defective vacuum seal on the jars.

According to an article published 100 years ago in the New Orleans Medical and Surgical Journal, “Cases of botulism are not common in this country.” Fortunately, that rarity remains true but sporadic cases and an occasional outbreak continue to occur.

The bacteria that produce the

deadly botulism toxin are widespread in nature. They thrive in low oxygen environments such as soil and stream sediments. Just as we plan for hurricanes with supplies and evacuation routes, these bacteria are programed with survival techniques for less than hospitable conditions. They form spores, which can survive freezing and boiling, but not proper processing in a pressure cooker.

Spores are bacterial versions of ISIS sleeper cells lying in wait for years to decades for the right growth conditions. In a nutrient-rich liquid or goo at room temperature with reduced oxygen content, the spores transform into toxinproducing bacterial factories. Botulism toxin is odorless and tasteless.

German health officials first linked outbreaks of paralytic illnesses to consumption of spoiled sausages in the eighteenth century. The sausage makers cleaned up their act, and those outbreaks disappeared. During the 1900s improper home canning techniques caused most cases. As home canning has decreased in popularity, botulism continues to surface in different venues.

Across our state line at a federal prison in Yazoo City, Mississippi, at least 17 inmates ended up in hospitals with botulism from drinking homemade prison hooch in 2016. But Louisiana only reported 14 cases of botulism in the past 20 years, and most involved infants.

“Gosh, that was a long time ago. I was a resident at Children’s Hospital. I remember the baby came in with a flaccid paralysis – weak muscles and difficulty moving. We made the diagnosis by the history. The parents had purchased some

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Botox the drug

The most potent neurotoxin known to man, the sausage poison of the 1800s, is now a sought-after pharmaceutical product. Miniscule injections of carefully assayed and diluted botulism toxin have multiple medical indications from ironing out forehead wrinkles and crow’s feet to control of excessive blinking and migraines.

raw honey at a roadside stand somewhere in rural Louisiana. Fortunately, the child completely recovered,” said Dr. Robert Faucheux, a pediatrician in Covington.

Dr. Faucheux and his colleagues published a case report describing how they diagnosed and treated the three-month-old infant with botulism. While ingestion of preformed toxin causes botulism in adults, the mechanism is different in infants. Babies lack the protective bile acids and natural bacterial flora to keep botulism spores at bay.

Spores can germinate into toxin-producing bacteria in their immature intestines.

Raw honey is normally contaminated with botulism spores. Babies should not be fed honey for their first year.

But the ubiquitous spores can be acquired in other ways such as by dust exposure from a construction site.

Back to filling station food.

Louisiana boasts exceptional examples of filling stations serving food. The combination Shell station and Billeaud’s Grocery in Broussard just off Highway 90 is world renowned for its boudin and cracklins. In New Orleans, several filling stations fry chicken that put the Colonel

and Al to shame.

Fried chicken parts may not be on the top of the culinary health heap, but no one ever contracted botulism from eating fried food. Since Galatoires deselected chicken livers from their menu years ago, Fuel N Mart, 4140 South Claiborne Ave, is my go-to stop for these fried delicacies.

“Baby, we got chicken. We got their livers. We got gizzards. We got fish on Fridays and meat pies sometimes. We fry it all. People make special trips for our livers, but gizzards are our best seller,” said Mary Tucker, one of two fry masters at Fuel N Mart operating out of a small standup space across the aisle from the filling station cashier.

“Darling, I don’t know what kind of oil we use, but it comes from Marque’s on the Westbank. Look right back there. There should be some sort of label on that box. All the chicken parts and seasonings too – Marque’s delivers it all.” The label read “clear fry soybean oil”.

Chicken is in the Marque DNA. It evolved from a corner grocery store selling fresh dressed chickens into a major supply house. For warehouse shopping lovers (you know who you are), Marque’s Market is a family owned Costco and Sams trimmed to the Nawlins’ essentials from snowball supplies to liquid plumber. It is open to all at 2320 8th Avenue in Harvey without membership fees or proof of restaurant association.

Key’s Fuel Mart, 1139 N Rampart St, just across from the French Quarter, is another gas station under the culinary radar. It receives raves for its fried chicken, but they don’t fry livers or gizzards.

Ideal Discount, 3340 Orleans Avenue near the bayou, is yet another favorite. n

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THE BEAT | HEALTHBEAT

Water Fall

French-inspired beauty routine du jour

By Kelly Massicot

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The world can thank the French for many things, like Champagne, photography and Coco Chanel. Its language is romantic, its history vast and its unmatched beauty is unlike anything else in the world. Now we can thank the French, yet again, for a product that has taken the American beauty world by storm – micellar water.

This tiny miracle became popular among makeup artists and enthusiasts alike after being used religiously for years by Parisian women to wash their face. In a time when traditional plumbing wasn’t a thing and the harshness of tap water was becoming detrimental to the skin, their solution became micellar water – a combination of micelles suspended in soft water.

The microscopic micelles are tiny balls of cleansing oil molecules and they attract and extract dirt and oil like a magnet. It looks just like regular water, but instead of products full of chemicals stripping away at your skin, micellar water soothes and hydrates while washing away the grim of your day. Because of its softness, it’s a great substitute for those with sensitive skin.

After a recent assignment brought me to the makeup application section of Sephora, I too jumped on the micellar water bandwagon.

Not one to normally follow fads, especially those that sound too good to be true, I was completely taken aback when the makeup artist began by cleaning my (what I thought was clean) face with the micellar water. More dirt and excess makeup came off than I ever would have imagined. I bought a bottle at that very moment.

I’ve been using micellar water for about two months now and I can say it’s extremely effective – especially on days when I’ve only applied a small amount of makeup to my face. Though it is not a miracle worker for those, like myself, who have skin issues due to medical issues or certain medications, it still leaves my face feeling hydrated and moisturized. I almost never have to put on extra moisturizer, and only do because it’s part of my nightly routine.

I will note that some brands lean to the more expensive side. I personally use the Dior Hydra Life Micellar Water No Rinse Cleanser, $42 at Sephora. I also want to note that it is not effective on its own when trying to clean off a great amount of makeup. No matter the price or extra use, micellar water has topped my list of French favorites right behind macarons and Marie Antoinette. n

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THE BEAT | CHRONICLES

Legacy of Nature Haven for Art

By Carolyn Kolb

“One thing I found, sitting very still in the woods,” said poet Benjamin Alan Morris, “is that it trains your senses to pick up on things that you would never otherwise observe --- you really see how each organism has its temperament and its personality.”

As Morris explained, a poet can benefit from quiet time outdoors.

For him, a time spent in a retreat resulted in a soon-to-be-published book of poetry, Ecotone. But, in today’s busy world, how can writers and artists and musicians do that?

How can they find a place to sit quietly, surrounded by nature?

Happily, for Morris, and for us in New Orleans, A Studio in the Woods --- where Morris was in residence -- is located on the West Bank, the lower coast of Algiers, right on the river. The vision of the late Julianne Carmichael and her husband Joe Carmichael, this magical spot welcomes creative souls to regenerate, gather new inspiration, and, in the process, enrich us 38

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all by their creative output.

While the Carmichaels both made art (she worked in clay, he did wood-working), it may have been their shared interest in public education that brought them to realize that their Algiers property (just under eight acres of hardwood bottomland forest) could be a special classroom, blending art and nature in an inspiring mix.

With space available in buildings constructed from older construction remnants on the land along the river, the Carmichaels began welcoming artists to stay at the site, and have others come for instruction and revitalization. Today, Joe Carmichael still lives on-site and welcomes the new residents and those who visit for programs and classes.

Julianne had been principal of an innovative elementary school, McDonogh 14 in the French Quarter. As a young child in Canada she had loved the woods and lakes, and she had always been creative

with her hands. Both Carmichaels regularly showed their crafts (they won a Contemporary Craft award in 1992 at Jazz Fest), and when they bought the Algiers property they began hosting craft shows there. Artists arrived for visits, and in 2001, the Carmichaels set up A Studio in the Woods as a nonprofit retreat. Eventually they donated the program to Tulane University. Tulane can now offer faculty support to the artists in residence.

Dr. Michael White remembers his first residency there in 2003: “My charge was to compose. In that first residency, it was the power of nature, the river, creation.”

“When I was in a creative mood, it was hard to stop. Joe and Julianne would leave meals on the stove and I could warm them up when I was ready.

I had no sense of time, I never watched a clock. I ate when I was hungry, but when I was in a creative mood I might have missed a few meals,” he laughed.

“I ended up writing a dozen songs, and the Basin Street Records album Dancing in the Sky came out in 2004.” (Check YouTube to hear some cuts.)

White’s second residency was after Katrina. “I was physically and emotionally exhausted- it was a way to get in touch with nature, bring things back into a different realm where thing were calm and normal.” The resulting album, Blue Crescent, includes a song White played in the HBO TV show Tremé, “Dark Sunshine.”

A constant presence at A Studio in the Country is Managing Director Ama Rogan, once a McDonogh 14 student, and a fine arts graduate from the Rhode Island School of Design.

At the moment Rogan is focusing on raising funds. “We have space for two artists at a time, and we are aiming to build a writer’s cabin,” she said.

Artists also get funding to document their works, and there is programming for children and day visitors. “David Baker, our environmental coordinator, keeps us aware that our land is helping protect the city during storms.”

Recent participants have included Sarah Danke who envisioned Dancers for Solidarity, a project involving incarcerated participants creating and sharing dance moves, and Monique Verdan, of Houma Indian descent, who considered how humans adapt to climate change, creating an archive of her people.

Why would artists want to do this? As the poet, Morris, explained: “You definitely feel like you are connected to the wilderness, even though you are still technically in the city of New Orleans.” n cheryl gerber photograph

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Local Color C H R I S R O S E | M O D I N E G U N C H | J O I E D ’ E V E | in tune | R E A D + S P I N | J A Z Z L I F E | H O M E

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Roger Waters brings his Us + Them tour to the Smoothie King Center on July 8.

LOCAL COLOR | MODINE’S NEW ORLEANS

Codebreakers When life recalculates

By Modine Gunch

Why do we even bother naming babies? We should just give them a cell phone number right in the delivery room.

These days, instead of yelling for my daughter Gladiola to come to supper, I just text her a picture of Popeyes. (And if supper turns out to be Beenee Weenees and broccoli, oh well.)

You got to roll with the times. I don’t miss the old days. Not Jell-O salad. Not pantyhose. Not bell bottom pants. I wouldn’t miss high heels, if by some miracle they would suddenly become extinct.

I don’t miss road maps either. I got a GPS, which I don’t have to re-fold and stuff into the glove compartment every time I use it. And no road map ever yelled “Recalculating!” when I sailed past my turn.

My grandkids have heard that so much, they yell “Recalculating!” if I accidentally start to stick my Coke in the freezer or a spoon in the microwave.

My older daughter Gumdrop and her husband are at a business meeting up North this week, so I am babysitting the kids in Folsom. Which means I

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am driving them to Scouts and tumbling and swimming and gymnastics and all over creation, recalculating all the way.

I got to do this because kids ain’t considered capable of just going out to play no more. But they are capable of programming their fancy TV, which I can’t do because it is as complicated as piloting a B-57.

They don’t own cell phones yet, but they know how to use them.

I catch Lollipop, who is nine, typing into my phone. I say, “How did you figure out my passcode?”

She says, “Ninety-nine percent of grandmas use their grandchildren’s birthdays.” Then she adds, “I am a sleuth.” I tell her to sleuth herself off to bed.

Some people open their phone with their fingerprint, but I never could get the hang of that. I do know how to invent a secret code, though, because I read a lot of Nancy Drew when I was a kid. M, for Modine, is the 13th letter. My maiden name was Bean, and B is the second letter. G for Gunch is the seventh letter. So my new phone passcode is 13-2-7. That will outsmart little Miss Sleuth.

I pretend not to notice her fooling with my phone next morning.

Well, it is quite a week. Thank God Gumdrop gave me all the teachers’ and coaches’ and leaders’ cell phone numbers so I can text them if I am late or lost or don’t know whether I got to bring cookies.

The last night I am there, both kids are stretched out on the floor watching Spongepants Squarebob, or whatever it’s called. They look so cute, I snap a picture and post it on Facebook.

And because, on Facebook, you always brag a little, I type: “Lol-

lipop and Go-Cup learning about sea life.”

Later, I check my post to see if I got any likes. And I read, “My precious Lollipop and my annoying grandson learning about sea life.”

I must have let out a shriek because Lollipop rushes over.

“Ohhhh! I forgot,” she says.

Well. Turns out you can program a cell phone so whenever you type one particular word, it substitutes something different.

Like, if you type “OMW,” it will print “On my way!” It’s to save time. Lollipop says her Aunt Gladiola showed her this little trick.

And somehow Lollipop figured out my new passcode and programmed my phone to replace her and Go-Cup’s names. I scroll through all the texts I have sent out this week: To the swim coach: “My precious Lollipop and my annoying grandson have colds, so will miss practice.”

To the Cub Scout leader: “Is it my annoying grandson’s turn to bring treats?”

To the gymnastics coach: “My precious Lollipop will be late because I have to pick up my annoying grandson at baseball.”

The thing is, none of these coaches or teachers said anything. They must assume everybody from New Orleans is nuts.

I am lucky they didn’t call Child Protection.

Lollipop says she thought I would notice it right away and laugh, but I was way too frazzled to notice anything and she forgot about it.

She fixes my phone and slinks off to bed. When I check on her, I notice a book under her pillow.

Nancy Drew.

Humph. Some things don’t change. n

LORI OSIECKI ILLUSTRATION

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LOCAL COLOR | JOIE D’EVE

War Cry

Please make the Mommy Wars stop

By Eve Crawford Peyton

I spent my lunch break yesterday driving across town to pick up these little bug-catchers I ordered as favors for my younger daughter’s birthday party. I also stayed up late the night before helping my older daughter with her homework while simultaneously baking coconut brownies for teacher appreciation week.

I don’t say any of this to be a martyr. I like doing this stuff.

I have no problem with my daily schedule.

What I have a problem with is the nonstop think pieces that keep coming across my interwebz suggesting that I am doing too much, doing it wrong, making other parents look bad. Or, alternately, that I should be doing more or doing it differently or that I am somehow being negligent by letting my 10-year-old walk to a friend’s house or letting my almost-5-year-old bathe alone (with the door open and with frequent check-ins from me).

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been to Disney as a family, and if we ever do go, I definitely will not have coordinating monogrammed Disney-themed outfits for every day for all of us.

I don’t make fun landscapes out of vegetables.

But if that stuff makes you happy, you’re not going to hear a word of judgment from me.

Meanwhile, I did extended breastfeeding, cloth-diapering, co-sleeping, and baby-wearing.

I once hand-wrapped more than 100 mini-candy bars with personalized paper for a birthday party and just about lost my mind over Ruby’s infamous Hulk and Candy party. I have been room mother every year Ruby has been in school.

But if none of that stuff makes you happy, I would never judge you for not doing it.

I’m too busy doing me to worry about you doing you, OK? In truth, I don’t follow any kind of real parenting philosophy. I’ve read a bunch of parenting books, and taken a few pieces of good advice from all of them, but really, I just do a hodgepodge of whatever works for me at any given moment.

I feed my kids junk food, send them to private school, and work outside of the home. I let them watch YouTube. We don’t have really strict bedtimes. I had one non-optional C-section and one that I probably could have avoided. I help my older daughter with homework a lot – I don’t do it for her, of course, but I do sometimes guide her: “I bet you can find the answer on page 149” or “Take one more look at No. 9, boo.” I always help quiz her the night before big tests; I drill her on times tables and listen to her read out loud if she’s having trouble concen-

trating on her required reading. I love making cookies or brownies for special occasions and sending them to school.

I yell too much. Messy bedrooms don’t really bother me.

I’m OK with baths every other day as long as underwear gets changed. I let my kids eat in the car. I curse in front of them. I’m fanatical about bike helmets but don’t care at all about organic food. My older daughter has had a cell phone since she was 7.

But you know what? NONE OF THIS AFFECTS ANYONE ELSE!!!

(I make an exception for my hardline stance on vaccinations because not vaccinating your kids does affect other people.)

To just use the birthday party as an example, I have been to great birthday parties where the parents sent out artisancrafted invitations; made incredible cakes from scratch (including practice cakes in the weeks leading up to the party); and handed out thoughtful, time-intensive favors that followed the party’s theme. And I have been to great birthday parties where the parents texted me a couple of nights before, served beer and Popeyes and cake from the Rouses bakery, and sent us on our merry way with a balloon.

I don’t want anyone to stop having elaborate birthday parties. I don’t want anyone to stop having casual birthday parties.

What I want is an end to the mommy wars and the judgment. n t

blog

Excerpted from Eve Crawford Peyton’s blog, Joie d’Eve, which appears each Friday on MyNewOrleans.com.

jane sanders ILLUSTRATION

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LOCAL COLOR | in tune

Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals

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July Jammin’ Big Tours are Rollin’

By Mike Griffith

This year, July is the month of legends. It is crazy how many huge tours are rolling through town. We begin with a double shot of outstanding music events. First and foremost, Essence Fest continues its unprecedented streak of amazing artists.

This year the event boasts Diana Ross, John Legend, Mary J. Blige, Chance the Rapper, Chaka Khan, Solange and Jill Scott, to name just a few. Chance’s set was hands down the best thing I saw at Hangout Fest this year; you won’t want to miss him at the Dome. The festival runs through July 2, so there is plenty to see.

On Saturday (the 1st) Legendary Texas guitarist Alejandro Escovedo will be at Chickie Wah Wah. By all account Escovedo and company have been positively tearing it up this tour with a return to a fuzzy garage aesthetic. This should sound amazing in Chickie Wah Wah. Just a week later on July 8, Roger Waters will bring his Us + Them tour to the Smoothie King Center. This show has been described as a combi46

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nation of Pink Floyd material with Waters’ solo projects. The excellent ladies of Lucius are joining him as part of the backup ensemble.

If that’s not enough the very next night, July 9, one of the godfathers of drum and bass, Roni Size will be at the Dragon’s Den. This is a huge addition to the Den’s ongoing Sunday evening Church series.

The Free Friday series at Tipitina’s continues this month with The New Orleans Suspects and John Mooney on the 7th, Brass-a-Holics and Motel Radio on the 14th, Walter “Wolfman” Washington on the 21st and Rory Danger & The Danger Dangers with Khris Royal & Dark Matter on the 28th. This is a wonderful series of local bands playing in one of the city’s most legendary venues.

If you’re looking for something a bit darker, on the July 15 Crowbar will be at Southport Hall. Crowbar were part of the original New Orleans sludge metal scene of the early 90s and have retained the excellent aesthetic of that movement.

Once again Jazz Fest’s older siblings kick off the last weekend in July at the beautiful Fort Adams State Park in Rhode Island. As usual the Folk Festival precedes the Jazz Festival. Both events have absurdly excellent line-ups, as usual. This year, Folk is headlined by a Fleet Foxes reunion, Wilco and John Prine. You can also catch Offa Rex, which consists of The Decemberists with British folk singer Olivia Chaney. The line-up runs deep this year with folks like Angel Olsen, Hurray for the Riff Raff and Whitney making appearances as well. The next weekend, see the likes of Bela Fleck and The Flecktones, Snarky Puppy and The Roots topping what has to be one of the best Jazz line-ups in years.

Take the initiative to head up and visit these amazing festivals. The setting is idyllic and the lobster is marvelous. Not to mention that the New England weather is a great break from the late July heat.

On the lighter side, Rooney will be at Gasa Gasa that same night (15th).

Robert Schwartzman’s power pop project has been reborn with a new line-up and record. Drop in if you’re looking to dance.

For the Broadway fans out there, the incomparable Tony winner Idina Menzel will be at the Saenger Theater on the 25th.

There are a lot of heavy hitters coming through town this month.

Take the chance to head out and catch some truly outstanding music. n

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contact

email Mike@MyNewOrleans.com or contact him through Twitter @Minima.

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LOCAL COLOR | READ+SPIN

A STUNNING COLLECTION OF 50 TRADITIONAL (AND SOME NONTRADITIONAL) LOUISIANA RECIPES. AN ABSOLUTE MUST HAVE FOR YOUR KITCHEN,

Non-Fiction for Saints Fans: What does it take to become a billionaire? How does financial and business success affect family relationships and public persona? When you live in New Orleans, it’s hard not become a Saints fan, and impossible not to know the Benson name. Veteran New Orleans journalist Kathy Finn’s biography of New Orleans-born billionaire Tom Benson reveals some of the mystery behind the legend.

(Finn also contributes a monthly business column to this magazine.) Tom Benson’s Billion Dollar Journey is a great read for those following the Benson family lawsuit scandals, and the controversial public discussions about the New Orleans Saints NFL team. For a book that goes into detail about business dealings and political history of the city’s NFL and NBA teams, it is also filled with dramatic twists and turns. A great summer read, it’s the perfect kick-off to the Saints pre-season.

OR THE PERFECT GIFT FOR A LOUISIANA FOOD LOVER.

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For Fans of Dogs and Design: While I do love all snuggly house pets, I consider myself to be “a dog person.” When Dog Decor by Sara Essex Bradley landed on my desk this month, it felt like Christmas in July. This hardcover coffee tablestyle book is filled with adorable portraits of dogs, and the designer homes they live in. A sweet read for dog lovers especially, Bradley includes captions about the homes featured in the photos, written from the personified perspective of the dogs living there. While photographing some of the most high-end home interiors in the city and beyond, Bradley, a New Orleans native herself, noticed that nearly every place had a dog, all of whom were as elegant and glamorous as the décor around them. Some of my favorites include: Mimi, a hotel dog in California; Paisley and Mika located in a home in Uptown New Orleans; and Bella and Lola living in the Irish Channel.

Alternative Rock: New on the music scene, Blonde Roses is a young band of two instrumentalists and a lead female vocalist. Blending gritty rock and blues with their Louisiana roots, their music is most often described as raw, honest and deeply resonating in the soul and the ears. Hell or Highwater is their first EP release, available now online. t

submissions

By Jessica DeBold, Please send submissions for consideration, attention: Ashley McLellan 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005.

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LOCAL COLOR | Jazz Life

A Melodic Zone Delfeayo Marsalis’ Latest

By Jason Berry

Of the four music-making brothers in a storied jazz dynasty, Delfeayo Marsalis, the producer and trombonist who turns 52 this month, is the only one of those siblings living in New Orleans. Last summer, his younger brother Jason, the percussionist, moved to France with his wife and three kids. Wynton lives in New York, anchored to Jazz at Lincoln Center; Branford lives in North Carolina, and like the other three brothers travels often for concerts and productions.

You can live anywhere now and make any kind of art, so transient has the digital revolution made our lives; but getting the work out into the world, and ringing up sales, is the same old hurdle.

Delfeayo made his mark in the 1980s as a producer of acoustic jazz. In 2000 he founded the Uptown Music Theatre, which has educated scores of young people who have performed in its musicals. He also leads the Uptown Jazz Orchestra, a superb big band in a town that has few regular venues for orchestral jazz.

Marsalis has a pair of recent CDs, which seem like opposite faces of the same coin, each a showcase for Delfeayo’s melodic

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inventiveness, each colored with a seasoned comic touch.

The Last Southern Gentleman is a tribute to the ballads and romantic side of jazz, with serene renditions of “Autumn Leaves” and “I Cover the Waterfront,” among others. The trombone in New Orleans-style jazz is known for its role as a rhythm-keeper and anchor of harmony. (The most famous exception is Kid Ory’s melodic lead on “Ory’s Creole Trombone.”) On The Last Southern Gentleman, Delfeayo plays the trombone with the delicate hand of a melodic engineer, a role we’re accustomed to hear from the trumpeter.

As I replayed this record over several hours on automotive excursions, Delfeayo’s five minute-and-forty second version of “Sesame Street,” with a sweet wahwah, brought back the smiles that warmed me on hearing Aaron Neville sing “The Mousketeers’ Song” from The Mickey Mouse Club.

Some of those old TV tunes have staying power, though it’s a serious challenge to make them sound fresh and sparkling. Marsalis’s ease and playful sense of melody stem from a commanding grasp of the music.

The Last Southern Gentleman has stellar support from Ellis Marsalis on piano, John Clayton on bass, and Marvin “Smitty” Smith on drums. “All early jazzmen had an extraordinary sense of etiquette, respect, kindness and humanity accompanying their toil,” the Southern Gent writes in his liner notes.

There is another side to Delfeayo’s talent that takes the whimsy of “Sesame

Street” to comic heights on the second CD – Make America Great Again! with the Uptown Jazz Orchestra.

The melodic clarity shimmers on cuts like “Java,” the Al Hirt hit written by Allen Toussaint. You know by virtue of the title, drawn from Donald Trump’s campaign slogan, that Delfeayo is sharpening the satirical knives on the title cut; but first, there is the first cut – “Star Spangled Banner,” played with a resonance and respect that reminded me of club owner Johnny Blancher on stage at Rock ‘n Bowl, entreating fans to sing for the flag, which I have done there and shall do again.

“Make America Great Again” features a witty singalong chorus that rolls on a highway of smiles behind the sardonic monologue read by actor Wendell Pierce. The record came out months before the city’s dismantling of Confederate statues, which set off bitter fireworks in the press and social media.

Pierce spoofs a college prof: “Rather than uphold the basic tenets of our Constitution these good old boys waged war against our United States of America...without a good back-up plan!”

The satire on national greatness, echoed in another song about slavery’s descendants, “Living Free (and Running Wild)” is another side of Delfeayo Marsalis’s wit.

The Last Southern Gentleman is a gem to play when close ones gather. Make America Great Again! will get ‘em laughing or yelling, depending on whether they want Robert E. Lee back on the pedestal or contentedly imagine vistas to come. n

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LOCAL COLOR | home

Left: Custom chartreuse linen pillows inspired the paint color used on the wall behind the bookshelves. Linen pillows, natural root coffee table, tufted chairs, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams sofa and Jonathan Adler lamp table, all through ND Studio.

Facing Page: Left: A rustic dining table found online is paired with chairs picked up at a garage sale. Above the dining area, is an organic, hammered metal light fixture available through ND Studio. Right: Kristen Metzger and her 9-year old rescue mix, Abbey.

Family Tradition

An updated 100-year-old Uptown house

By Lee Cutrone

A hundred and seven years ago, Kristen Metzger’s great-grandparents built a house just steps from Audubon Park. Through the years, her great-grandparents, grandparents and other relatives lived there, and Metzger herself, dreamed of one day owning the 52

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property. In 2013, the dream became a reality when the house was handed down to Metzger through her father’s succession.

Metzger, who has her own graphic design business (The Constance Creative) and often draws floor plans for realtors, soon designed a Photographed by greg miles

remodel for the home. She then consulted an architect, hired a contractor and found an interior designer. The plan was to respect the sentimental, family-rich history of the house, while making the space her own.

“This house has always been in my family,” she says. “I want to raise my kids here.”

Originally a two-plex with first and second floor units, then a tri-plex and later a two-plex again, the house had identical floor plans on the lower and upper floors. Metzger gutted the house to the studs and reconfigured some of the floor plan to turn it into a single-family residence with room to grow. Downstairs, she removed walls to create an open flow between the new kitchen, living and dining areas. Upstairs, she turned what had been the living and dining rooms into guest bedrooms and turned the space previously occupied by the kitchen into a large master closet. She left the façade the same, but added a porch and a balcony across the rear.

Perusing Thumbtack, a website designed to match consumers with service providers, she found local designer Nadia Ramadan of ND Studio and the two clicked immediately. Ra-

madan was quick to get an accurate read of what Metzger likes and to deliver options that suited her client’s vision.

“My favorite part of working with Kristen is that she trusted me,” says Ramadan. “Oftentimes, I have to show clients many different furniture options for them to feel comfortable with their choice. With Kristen, it was easy. I knew what she would like before I even showed her.”

With her familial history always at the forefront of the project, Metzger wanted a transitional interior that pays homage to the past but also reflects her life and style. That meant bringing together old and new. Designer and client opted for timeless architectural features and surfaces, such as clerestory windows that mimic the homes original transoms, quartz and Carrera marble counters and original wood flooring. They also included several pieces of heirloom furniture, most notably, a 19th century sofa that belonged to Metzger’s grandmother.

Ramadan, had the sofa’s dark wood frame stripped, painted and glazed, and replaced its worn, mauve upholstery. In the process, she and Metzger discovered that the sofa was carved with swans they hadn’t noticed. myneworleans.com JULY 2017

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Facing Page: Top Left: Metzger and Ramadan chose coral (one of Metzger’s favorite colors) and gray for the master bedroom. The bench at the foot of the bed belonged to her grandmother and was reupholstered. Custom headboard, nightstands, alpaca rug and drapery through ND Studio. Top Right: The bubble-like pattern of the marble floor Metzger chose for the master bath set the tone for the rest of the room. The custom Roman shade and the crystal light fixture overhead repeat the circular shape.

Bottom Left: Metzger added a porch and a balcony to the back of the house. Bottom Right: The guest bedroom is dressed in neutral beige and white. Custom drapery, headboard, nightstands and hand-sewn cowhide rug,

through ND Studio.

Top Left: The kitchen’s gray cabinets, quartzite counters, subway tile backsplash and stainless steel appliances are both classic and fresh.

Glass pendant fixtures from Southland Plumbing Supply, bar stools from Gabby Home.

Top Right: Metzger inherited the living room sofa from her grandmother and Ramadan gave it a refresh by having it stripped, painted, glazed and reupholstered. After it was renewed, homeowner and designer discovered it was carved with swans. Ramadan designed both the raw metal and barge board console (at left) and the raw metal and quartz coffee table (at right). Fabrics, drapery, rugs, gold leaf basket weave end tables, microsuede chair, and chandelier in foyer, all through ND Studio.

Ramadan tempered the refinement and modernity of several other pieces she designed for the house by incorporating rustic elements such as raw metal and reclaimed barge board. “I didn’t want too much polish,” says Metzger.

With one foot rooted firmly in classic design, Metzger and Ramadan were free to have fun with contemporary trends such as statement lighting, animal skins, metallics and splashes of bold color. The two are so likeminded on their design choices that they finish each other’s sentences and are quick to point out their favorite parts of the re-design. Metzger loves the refurbished sofa. “My grandmother would be so proud,” she says.

Ramadan is especially fond of the organic hammered light fixture in the dining room. “It was a risk but I think it definitely paid off,” she says. “It highlights the tall ceilings and everyone talks about it when they come in.”

Making the house dog-friendly for Metzger’s 9-year old shelter rescue, Abbey, was an important consideration for designer and client as well. Metzger chose ample backyard space for Abbey over a larger version of the new garage, sized the stair treads to accommodate an aging pet, and with only a few exceptions, went for easy-to-clean fabrics like washable white bed linens and micro-suede upholstery. “Sometimes I find myself looking around and thinking I still can’t believe that this is real,” says Metzger of her dream home. “Every design decision I made, I kept in my mind ‘would Gammie be proud, would Dad be proud?’ I think they would.” n

eat. drink. enjoy. our 2017 best new Restaurants

By Jay Forman, Tim McNally, Robert Peyton Photographed by Denny Culbert

Discussing food, cooking and restaurants is a part-time sport for New Orleanians. Only here do we discuss where we’re going to eat next, while we’re still eating. From breakfast to brunch, lunch to cocktail bites, dinner to late night eats and desserts, we’ve got a lot to talk about.

Enjoy our selection of the best new dining spots in New Orleans, and continue your own food conversations!

(l-r) roasted chicken with greens and field peas; rosé; the last word cocktail; tuna niçoise salad; tofu stuffed squash blossoms at Bar Frances

best of the best

left page: Korean short ribs with kimchi cucumber facing page, from the top left clockwise: Meril dining room; yellowfin tuna wraps; fried rock shrimp tacos; muffaletta flat bread; chef Will Avelar; upside-down cornbread

Meril The concept for Restauranteur Emeril Lagasse’s first new restaurant in New Orleans in almost 20 years came from a series of trips he took for his Emmywinning Amazon series Eat the World.

“I wanted to have a big menu, and I also didn’t want to do the traditional appetizers, entrée, dessert kind of thing,” he says.

“But most importantly, I wanted it to be fun; to be the kind of place you would take your family.” The result was Meril, a celebration of tastes from around the globe as executed under the auspices of New Orleans’ most famous celebrity chef.

Rather than adhering to just one cuisine, Meril instead presents dishes from all over. These in turn are authentic

rather than fusion-y – an important distinction. The challenge here is how to decide, as the diner’s attention is pulled in all sorts of exciting directions. Feel like visiting the Yucatan? Try the Rock Shrimp Tacos off the ‘Snacks’ menu, garnished with pickled red onion and a chili-spiked sauce for heat. If you prefer Korean, pay attention to the dishes coming off the robata grill. Thin, bone-in slices of marinated Short Rib are served with house-made kimchi. For seasonal options, Chef de Cuisine Wilfredo Avelar comes up with the specials, including a recent wood-fired flatbread inspired by a Louisiana crawfish boil. “He put crawfish tails, sausage, corn, onion and garlic on

424 Girod St. 526-3745 EmerilsRestaurants.com/Meril

top,” recalls Emeril. “People went crazy for it.”

Meril offers a more casual vibe than Emeril’s other restaurants. Graffitiinspired murals adorn the raw brick walls and a wrap-around dining room presents a view into the bustle of the kitchen. But despite the less-formal approach, fit and finish is excellent, with thoughtful touches throughout. Adding to family appeal, a cotton candy machine is stationed near the cheese case. “They thought I was crazy for that one,” Emeril said. But on a recent visit, my daughter returned to the table with a fluffy pink cloud of spun sugar and a huge smile. Clearly, Emeril knew what he was doing. -JF

this page: Nutella shake; brisket, potato salad, and spicy grilled cabbage. facing page: pain perdu; Lula rum mojito; pork roast grillades with grits

best bbq

Frey Smoked Meat Company Spirited Dining One recent Sunday the Forman family hungered for barbeque. Having heard about some ‘Family Feast’ special at Frey Smoked Meats, they decided to check it out. What followed was a multi-pronged smoky barrage on all senses, led

by Brisket Chili & Cheese Fries, pepper-jelly glazed Pork Belly poppers, shaggy mounds of pulled pork, shimmering slices of beef brisket and much, much more. “Meat coma,” points out chef and owner Ray Gruezke, “is kind of the point. You pretty much get some of everything.”

The quality stacks up with the quantity. Meats are smoked daily and overnight over a mixture of oak and pecan and Gruezke, who also owns nearby Rue 127, has fine dining chops. But Frey is where he cooks to have fun and let it all hang out. Be sure to save room for the goliath Strawberry Shortcake Milkshake, garnished with an actual strawberry shortcake and pocked with bubble tea straws. It comfortably served four. -JF

4141 Bienville St. 488-RIBS FreySmokedMeat.com

Lula Restaurant Distillery This is the only place of its kind in the Southeastern U.S. It makes sense that a pioneering distillery/restaurant combination would be located on a main thoroughfare of one of America’s greatest eating and drinking towns.

The owners, good friends Jess Bourgeois and Bear Caffrey, are Southeast Louisiana guys through and through. Bear is an E.R. doctor in Baton Rouge, and Jess is a unique combination of chef and spirits distiller.

Lula is now distilling rum, vodka and gin, all from Louisiana ingredients.

What comes out of the kitchen is creative and delightful. Spicy garlic shrimp, avocado and pompano dip, Gulf Fish Club, grits and grillades, braised rabbit and white beans. The old Halpern’s Furniture store, where Lula is located, was never this enjoyable. -TM

1532 St. Charles Ave. 267-7624 info@lulanola.com

this page: hogs head cheese broth soup dumplings from the weekend brunch dim sum menu. facing page: Maypop kitchen crew William “Trey” Smith III, Adam Bean, Michael Gulotta, Justin Bruhl, and Miles Glynn; crispy fried P&J oysters; foie gras and blueberry tart with corn miso, peach, and pickled chanterelles; Maypop dining room

Maypop According to Chef Michael Gulotta: “Hospitality and restaurant workers do not keep normal hours. And when we are done at the end of a hard shift, we like to head for pleasurable cuisines inspired by exotic places like Thailand and Vietnam, but we all have a healthy respect and love for the ingredients from South Louisiana.”

That, in a nutshell, explains Maypop, the newest expression from the much-awarded chef who brought us Mopho, Treo and a couple of temporary pop-ups that both satisfied and amazed. Maypop the plant is a wild vine that is purely Southern United States so even in the name of his new spot; Chef Gulotta did not stray far from his roots.

Chef Michael Gulotta is a family-type guy at all levels. His brother, Jeff, is the food and beverage manager who does a masterful job of selecting wines and cocktails at their wildly successful first solo effort, Mopho near City Park.

The new restaurant, which many have compared to Mopho, is somewhat different, more sophisticated in design and more adventuresome in menu selections. Chef is proud of both locations but he wants, and achieves, definable separations in styles and operations.

“I like what hybridization, sometimes called Creolization, has done in our town, respecting somebody else’s cuisine and then making it our own with our ingredients, caught and harvested from very close to where the dining takes place.

Maypop can be defined as Mekong meets the Mississippi Delta,” Gulotta notes.

Sometimes it helps to have a guide to better understand all the influences on Maypop’s menu. The noodle portion of the menu includes Pecan Cavatappi involving King Trumpet mushrooms, fennel, Herbsaint, and coconut milk. Under the same heading, Andouille Bolognese is working with red bean calamarata. On the entrée side, one of the stars is a Duck Confit punctuated by a black roux Hoisin and served in crepinette.

The chefs are having a lot of fun, turning out great and imaginative dishes, and we, the lucky diners, reap all the benefits. A very good deal all around. -TM

611 O’Keefe Ave. 518-6345 MaypopRestaurant.com

best bbq

Effervescence

Central City BBQ Central City commanded much of the BBQ buzz late last year, what with its dream team pairing of Patois’ Aaron Burgau and pit master Rob Bechtold of NOLA Smokehouse acclaim. A shakeup just a few months in resulted in Bechtold’s exit, but Burgau has steered his ship through the transition and has his team smoking on all cylinders. The space is striking, with a bold industrial feel softened by an island bar, wood paneling and pools of natural light. The dining room spills over into a huge side lot with picnic table seating, and onsite catering event space plays into to the restaurant’s vision, which is clearly to handle significant volume. Central City dreams big bbq dreams and delivers. Try the Brisket “Burnt Ends” – a signature item – and the sweet corn spoonbread as a side. The pulled pork pairs well with the Carolina-style vinegar sauce, and smoked boudin is a must as well. -JF

1201 S. Rampart St. 558-4276 CentralCityBBQ.com

Hard to understand that up until now there was no bar in this festive city that specialized in Champagnes, sparkling wines, Prosecco and Cava. That shortcoming has been well rectified.

Effervescence respects its historic setting then offers all-white decor, fully comfortable surroundings the likes of which has never been seen here. The list of wines is broad, covering a wide range of price points.

The sometimes-overshadowed kitchen responds well with snacks and small plates perfectly paired to add to the fun nature of the core product and reinforce the feeling of the edge-ofthe-Quarter location. Even the new North Rampart Street streetcars passing at the door add to the overall delightful impression. -TM

1036 N. Rampart St. 509-7644 NolaBubbles.com

facing page: brisket burnt ends with sweet corn spoon bread and pickles. this page: seafood plateau, fries with aubergine aioli, and sparkling rosÊ

Spirited Dining

Marjie’s Grill Chef Marcus Jacobs and co-owner Caitlin Carney are the sort of folks who’d be cooking whether they had a restaurant or not. They clearly love what they do. The couple met while working at Herbsaint, and the thing that struck me when I first visited Marjie’s Grill was their enthusiasm.

This is a casual restaurant, with counter service and communal tables in the main dining room that seat around 40. There are no tablecloths, but the service is friendly, attentive and effective. There’s a patio in the back of the place, which, as I write, is still under construction, but when it’s done it will double (at least) the seating space. It’s a neighborhood restaurant, though I suspect that many of the customers are coming from all over town.

They decided to open a restaurant after travelling in Southeast Asia, and the menu reflects, in part, the food they ate during that vacation.

Then there’s the grill. They’re using a Santa Maria-style setup, which allows them to raise and lower the grates holding the food, depending on whether they want a quick sear or a low and slow process. Much of the best food coming out of the kitchen relies on the latter technique, though I won’t discount the fryer, which puts out exemplary catfish and chicken, among other things.

I was charmed by chef Jacobs when he showed me around their grills. It’s always exciting when a chef has complete control over the menu, the ingredients, and the cooking methods. Not every dish will work out, but when the folks in the kitchen are talented and inspired, the result can be addictive. I’m addicted to the char-grilled cabbage, the Thai-style vegetable salad, and the stir-fry of shrimp I had the last time I was there. It’s comfort food, in a comfortable setting, and made with passion. What else could you ask for? -RP

320 S. Broad St. 603-2234 MarjiesGrill.com

facing page: spicy wok shrimp and cornbread; cornmeal battered fried chicken with grilled squash and smashed cucumbers; owners chef Marcus Jacob and Caitlin Carney. this page: fried catfish and pig ear salad

cornbread; strawberry lemonade; fried chicken and red beans; Creole seafood gumbo; and potato salad. facing page: chefs Frank Jones and Lisa Ursin

Dunbar’s Creole Cuisine If you set the way-back machine to pre-2005 New Orleans and visited Freret Street, the sleepy corridor you’d find would bear scant resemblance to the trendy strip of restaurants and shops of today.

However, one thing you would find would be one of the most comfortable neighborhood restaurants in New Orleans. This would be Dunbar’s Creole Cuisine, operated by Celestine Dunbar, whose red beans and rice, fried chicken and seafood gumbo drew fans from all walks of life through her welcoming doors. After the levee failures, the restaurant struggled to find a new space, operating for a time at the Loyola Law School and later as a catering service and festival vendor. They’ve finally found a new home at 7834 Earhart Blvd, Welcome back, Dunbar’s! We missed you.

The food is no-frills Creole cooking, served in generous portions, with sides like mac and cheese and mustard greens alongside baskets of light, crumbly cornbread. The Fried Chicken is not to be missed, nor the Red Beans and Rice with its scored link of sausage. And while the all-you-can eat calling card of the Freret Street location is no longer offered, rest assured Miss Celestine Dunbar will not allow you to leave hungry. Poor boys, fried seafood and daily plate specials are all featured. Dunbar’s also serves breakfast from 6 AM to 10 AM. The space is markedly different from the old Dunbar’s, where it could have felt like you were eating at someone’s house, with its low ceiling and warren of rooms. The new location on Earhart features soaring ceilings, brick walls and a much more open floor plan. There is plenty of parking in a lot out front, but most importantly the same hospitality that you found at the old spot can be found here as well. -JF

509-6287 7834 Earhart Blvd

this page: citrus poached shrimp with a whiskey smash. facing page: St. Louis spare ribs with ginger sesame slaw and potato salad

Spirited Dining

best bbq

Bar FrancEs Easily slides into the New American niche in a neighborhood populated by a solid diversity of cuisines and dining styles. Trendy and comfortable, the emphasis at Bar Frances is on an easily appreciated breadth of offerings of wellexecuted, reasonably priced small and large entrees.

There is a particular accent on wine, mostly Europeancentric with solid selections from across the wine world map. Aperol Spritzer on the outside deck, anyone?

Small plates include Beef Tartare, both Endive and Farro salads, Lamb Meatball, Mushroom Toast and Prince Edward Island Mussels. Larger entrees range from Cauliflower Tagine, to a solid range of preparations with fish, pork, chicken and steak. -TM

4525 Freret St. 371-5043 BarFrances.com

Blue Oak BBQ Blue Oak started as a pop-up at Grits Bar back in 2012. It now serves its smoky fare in a brick and mortar housed on a corner wedge of North Carrollton Avenue near City Park.

Co-owner Ron Evans turns New Orleans’ lack of signature ‘cue to his advantage, deftly spinning out a menu that takes its cues from Tennessee, Texas, and beyond. “There is not really a New Orleans barbeque style, so we’ve taken different styles from around the south but tailored the glazes and rubs more to a New Orleans palate,” Evans says. St. Louis Spareribs are recommended here, as are the sides, which are largely traditional but torqued up with some unique twists. Slaw is lightened with ginger and sesame and the potato salad is seasoned with Old Bay – Maryland’s analog to Tony Chachere’s. Be sure to try the cracklings dusted with cool ranch seasoning. Sandwiches, such as the Pit Viper with jerk-seasoned pulled pork and fresh jalapeno, are strong as well. -JF

900 Carrollton Ave. 822-2583 BlueOakBBQ.com

DTB Oak is one of the streets in the New Orleans area that has a deserved reputation as a “restaurant row.” One of the newest, and best eateries on that street is DTB, an acronym for “Down the Bayou”; Chef Carl Schaubhut and his co-owner Jacob Naquin are both from Southwest Louisiana, and they describe the food at DTB as “coastal Cajun.” In practice, and with a talent like Schaubhut and Chef de Cuisine Jacob Hammel in the kitchen, that means both classic dishes rendered with a chef’s deft touch and ambitious takes on traditional flavors.

There’s an oyster gratin made with smoked bivalves, Parmesan béchamel and gremolata; squash blossoms are stuffed with alligator chorizo, ricotta and olives, and served with sauce piquant.

Grilled local fish comes with andouille sausage, fried pickles, corn, Swiss chard and chermoula, the tart, spicy Moroccan condiment.

These days, any place with ambition will have a bar program, and at DTB that program is in the hands of Lu Brow, one of the best in town. When I covered DTB earlier this year, I mentioned the Louisiana Cocktail, and I’m inclined to do it again, because Brow has taken a simple formula – the Sazerac – substituted an amaro for the Herbsaint, and added a mist of pecan oil. I thought the oil might have a deleterious effect on the drink, but it’s subtle, and the drink remains one of my favorites.

The restaurant feels comfortable and modern, despite an abundance of wood salvaged from the renovation of the building, and decorative elements that include Spanish moss. Valerie Legras is responsible for the interior design, and Brooks Graham, whose name should be familiar to anyone who follows the local restaurant scene, was the architect. -RP

8201 Oak St. 518-6887 DTBnola.com

facing page: alligator chorizo stuffed squash blossoms; banana toffee cake; chef/owner Carl Schaubhut; mushroom boudin balls. this page: 24 hour short rib with baked grits

wild ride Mr. Rose’s

On his magical talking and walking tour through the French Quarter

i

By Chris Rose Illustration by Jason Raish

n 2013, I hit bottom. After Katrina, I fell into a downward spiral of clinical depression, psychotherapy, divorce, opiate addiction and several rehabs before I eventually kicked that habit. After finally crawling my way out of the rabbit hole, I found myself unemployed and, for the most part, unemployable, here in the city I know and love so much.

So, at the age of 53, I started waiting tables for the first time in my life, a last-chance, desperate effort to keep groceries on the table for my kids.

No need to play tiny violins for me; I brought it all upon myself. But still, it bothered me that I was not using my highly developed and attuned professional skills to make a living. Then again, I don’t actually possess any highly developed and attuned professional skills. I just know how to do two things. I write. And I talk.

I can talk a lot. Some might consider that a gift. My friends and family find it generally annoying. But I have discovered a way to make a career of it.

You see, I was born with a constitutional compulsion to entertain, inform and invigorate people. I crave an audience.

Attention. The spotlight. But a table of four hungry diners in a restaurant was not the audience I was looking for. And then an epiphany hit me.

Walking from my French Quarter apartment to my restaurant every evening, I passed the same scene, night after night: Massive crowds of tourists scattered all over the Quarter, clogging sidewalks while patronizing ghost, vampire and voodoo tours.

Hundreds of people a night, in hot or cold weather, gathered in huge groups led by guys wearing chimney sweep hats and capes, carrying walking sticks, wearing Gothic eye shadow and holding the crowds in their grip with stories of legend, lore and mythology. Ghost tours, in a word. A thriving industry in this city, a place so often referred to as “America’s most haunted city.”

Hundreds, if not thousands, of tourists pony up anywhere from $25 to $75 every day and night in New Orleans to spend three hours getting their heads filled with fantastical stories of the afterlife, the occult and the netherworld.

I would walk past dozens of these groups every night and count customers: Twenty-five people paying $25 or more per person and I realized those tour guides were making more money for three hours’ work in one night than I was making during four eight hour shifts breaking my back slinging trays, suffering the vagaries of ornery diners, polishing silver and mopping floors.

And the tourists were eating it up! What’s wrong with this picture, I asked myself.

So I went on the city website to see how you become a licensed tour guide. Other than giving the city a bunch of money for fees, permits and other phantom expenses, you just need to pass two tests: One, a New Orleans history test and the other a urine test.

I looked at these guys out on the streets

"

I can talk a lot. S om e mi g ht co n sid e r th at a g i ft.

My frien ds an d fami ly fi n d i t g en e r ally a n n oy i n g .

But I hav e d iscov e r e d a way to make a ca r e e r o f i t.

"

every night, some of them a motley crew, and I thought: If they can pass the tests, certainly I can pass the tests.

So I set about memorizing the difference between cast iron and wrought iron. The difference between Doric, Ionic and Corinthian columns. The difference between Bienville and Iberville. Who was the first mayor of New Orleans and the first Governor of Louisiana? Who was Don Juan Manuel de Salcedo? What are the ingredients of a Sazerac?

OK, that last one might not have been in there. Then again, it might have. The tour guide test is hopelessly tedious, based primarily on a hopelessly tedious, dense, somewhat out of date and overly romantic presentation of the city – a book called “The Beautiful Crescent,” whose revisionist history is a bit discomfiting, containing many pages and anecdotes about Pontchartrain Beach Amusement Park, for instance, but no

mention at of Lincoln Beach.

Yes, the good old days.

Now, I have no problem with the city requiring some kind of test to get a license, providing some kind of standard or safeguard for those who officially represent the municipality, albeit in a minor way. But I would think topics along the lines of hospitality and/or public safety would be much more useful than, say, requiring a guy who tells ghost stories for a living to know the history and intricacies of our sewage and water pumping systems.

Unless, of course, there is a haunted pumping station somewhere in the city.

Oddly enough, the test is administered by, of all city departments - the Taxi Cab Bureau. And it’s not an easy test by any means. Lots of folks fail it. And it’s a bit of a racket. Both the Cabildo and Delgado Community College actually offer pricey courses to prep would-be guides to help people pass. Some folks put in eight weeks of classes and are out more than $800 before they ever get their license. That is, if they get their license.

Me, I skipped the classes and the book. I figured I’ve lived here long enough that I should have enough institutional knowledge to skate by. Plus, the test is multiple choice, and anyone knows that if you don’t know the answer to a multiple choice question, it’s almost always “C.” I have no idea how that works, but it does. You need a grade of 75 to pass.

I got a 93. And so in April of 2016, I got my tour guide license. And then I set about creating and writing a tour.

I didn’t want to work for one of the big tour companies that require their guides to deliver mandatory prepared texts and, more to the point – I wanted to tell stories that aren’t being told.

My goal was to create a guided adventure unlike anyone else was offering - not only for our visitors - but one that would attract locals as well. And so was born the Magical Musical History Mystery French Quarter Walking Tour.

A mouthful to be sure. Ostensibly

it is a “music” tour, but that’s a bit of a misnomer. What I do is use music as a doorway to open up stories about both our city and state’s history, culture, lifestyle, politics and a little bit of scandal.

Why music? Because, I believe, more than our cuisine and more than our architecture, music is the most fundamental element of our community’s shared cultural DNA. After all, what other state has not one, not two, not three, not four, not five...but six state songs?

Louisiana, the land of excess in all things. You wouldn’t believe what people from other places think their state songs are. Folks from New Jersey inevitably say “Born to Run” and I have had nearly a dozen folks from Seattle and other cities in Washington insist, inexplicably, that their state song is “Louie, Louie.” I am not making this up.

But, like many other myths I set out to destroy on my tour, I do my best to diplomatically inform these folks that they are possibly mistaken and may want to Google that, just to be sure.

(The truth is, New Jersey doesn’t actually have an “official” state song, despite a recent push in the state legislature to adopt the lyrics of a composition called “I’m From New Jersey,” and Washington’s is “Washington, My Home.” Which kind of makes you think “Born to Run” and “Louie, Louie” aren’t as bad as they might seem at first blush.)

And so I started giving tours. I was nervous as hell at first. For one, I was worried how the other tour guides – folks who have been doing this for years and now ostensibly my competitors – would treat me out on the street, but I have been delightfully surprised at the warm welcome most have offered me, and how many have openly wished me luck.

After all, the French Quarter tour guide business has earned its fair share of sordid publicity in years past. When I was a reporter at The Times-Picayune many years ago, I wrote a series of stories about the ghost tour wars, and some of the incidents that occurred between rival companies and individuals reached a truly menacing, even dangerous, state of affairs.

Car tires were cut. Advertising and promotional flyers and posters mysteriously disappeared from racks in hotel lobbies. Some concierges were bribed to send hotel guests to one tour company over another. Sometimes such tensions came to blows.

The hijinks escalated. In some cases, a tour guide from one company would show up at the regular meeting spot for another company, ten or fifteen minutes before the scheduled departure time, and would gather whatever customers had showed up early to nurse a drink while they waited and they would wrangle the waiting crowd and lead them away on their own tour before the regularly scheduled guide arrived on the scene – only to find that his roster of 25 reservations had somehow dwindled to six people.

Tensions grew so hot that once, many, years ago – back in the ghost tour industry’s infancy – that one tour guide fire-bombed a competitor’s car outside the French Market because he suspected him of poaching his customers. The police got involved. The city council got involved.

And in much the same way the Mardi Gras Indians were brought to heal several years back – to stop shooting and stabbing each other and start chanting and dancing with each other– the heavyweights of the ghost tour business agreed to an uneasy peace which seems to have mostly lasted. It is a much more civilized business than in the past.

So, as a newcomer to the business and – more to the point – a threat to established bottom lines, I was a bit intimidated when I started leading my groups past their groups on the sidewalks. But I haven’t proved much of an existential threat to the ghost tour conglomerates. They still get 25 people every tour.

When I get 10, I consider it a good day.

There’s no question: Madame LaLaurie and her ghastly and ghostly past and the lore of Marie Laveau’s dark arts carry a lot sexier appeal for out-of-towners than Ernie K-Doe, Gennifer Flowers and Cosimo Matassa.

But the past year on the streets has been a great opportunity to meet lots of interesting folks, both local and visiting.

When I arrive at our meeting place (no one ever steals my customers) I can always tell who the locals are right away: They’re the ones who already have beverages in their hands.

Sometimes out-of-towners will inquire: If I don’t want a drink right now but maybe would like to pick one up along the tour, is that possible? Yes, I tell them. This is the French Quarter. You’ll have that opportunity about every 40 feet. And then we walk. Not very far, just a winding route from Jackson Square to Armstrong Park.

I tell my stories. Stories that break down a lot of old, institutional myths, and I create a whole new set of them for consideration, many of them stretching credibility, but all of them the absolute truth. And folks seem to enjoy it.

Although it’s not for everyone, I realize. Sometimes we’ll start with, say 16 people and finish with 12. Somewhere along the line, we turned right, and they turned left.

And so it goes. Perhaps they would enjoy a ghost tour more. But at least it’s turned into fairly steady, if unpredictable work. I’m out on the streets, sharing the magic of the city I love. Taking nice walks several mornings and afternoons a week.

No desk, no boss, no dress code, no staff meetings, no suffering through King Cakes on Fridays during Mardi Gras.

Just living the dream and doing what I do best. Talking. And talking.

And talking.

The Menu TABLE TALK | RESTAURANT INSIDER | FOOD | LAST CALL | DINING LISTINGS

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TABLE TALK, PG. 80

Chef Charles Blake cooks up Jamaican comfort food at 14 Parishes.

jeffery johnston PHOTOGRAPH

THE MENU | TABLE TALK

Jerk Chicken at 14 Parishes tTropical

Tapas

Baru Bistro & Tapas, while admittedly fusion-y, exudes an island vibe. For starters, a well-balanced ceviche features chunks of sweet potato among the cubes of drum. From the tapas menu, scoops of chicken curry sit atop discs of mashed green plantain, and mini-arepas piled with a shaggy heap of pulled pork are topped with pickled red onion. There are plenty of entrees as well, but the tapas and starters keep things fresh and exciting here, leaving even more room for the excellent bar program.

Jamaica Style No Problem

By Jay Forman

Chances are you have heard New Orleans referred to as the ‘northernmost city’ of the Caribbean. The adage usually applies to the city’s mélange of cultures, music and in particular its multilayered cuisine, informed by its colonial past and flavored by successive waves of immigration. But for this piece I wanted to look at a couple of places that put a specific focus on island cuisine. Not the upscale ones, like Nina Compton’s acclaimed Compere Lapin, but more casual spots which blend culture, community, entertainment and more.

It is Friday night at 14 Parishes, a new Jamaican spot just off of Lee Circle in Central City. A DJ is setting up her equipment on the stage in the dining room while a group of women share appetizers over copious drinks at a long communal table against the far wall.

A family gathers to catch up while their kids clamber up on the stage and are greeted with smiles. The overall feel is convivial in an easygoing way, which is just what owner Conroy

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Blake aims to provide.

“In Jamaica we call these kinds of places cookshops, rum bars or jerk stands,” Blake says. “But whatever you call it, there is always music and always people gathering with one goal in mind – to have good food while having a good time.”

14 Parishes is a family affair which blurs the line between bar, restaurant and music club. Blake is the owner while his brother Charles heads up the kitchen and Charles’s wife Lauren handles the front. The Blakes got started in the restaurant business while in Atlanta, where they missed the Jamaican food they grew up with. “We’d try to get good jerk chicken but when we got it was either superspicy or didn’t have enough flavor – it was always a miss,” he recalls. “So we decided to make it ourselves.” The Blakes brought their Jamaican authenticity down here to New Orleans when Lauren, who was displaced by Katrina, decided to return home.

The restaurant takes its name from the

14 Parishes that make up Jamaica and the individual parish names are featured on the menu as well. For starters, consider the minipatties, a kissing cousin of the empanada, filled with curry chicken, beef or veg.

The Ilan Slice, a tortilla piled high with jerk chicken, bell pepper and jack cheese, is quintessential bar food.

For main dishes, the Portland -- jerk chicken on the bone with a choice of white or dark meat -- is their most popular choice. The chicken, rubbed and grilled until it is burnished with a mahogany hue, is served alongside a terrific dipping sauce. Charles makes the rub with ingredients

jeffery johnston PHOTOGRAPH

sourced on his periodic runs to Atlanta for spices and supplies, while the sauce is a concoction of Conroy’s, who came up with it when a neighbor of his wanted to eat his bbq but found it too spicy.

The thin, flavorful sauce tamps down the pepper while bringing in a bit of sweetness.

Sides include stewed callaloo, a leafy green vegetable akin to spinach. The mac and cheese is decadent, while the fried sweet plantains are like caramelized manna. Vegan dishes are a big part of the menu as well. The Rasta Pasta is a vegetarian’s delight, with chunks of carrots, bell pepper and cauliflower picking up richness from the coconut sauce. If available, consider their specials like the Whole Fish, a four-pound snapper deep-fried on the bone and drizzled with a spicy vinegar and pepper sauce. “We had a couple that came in and wanted to try it,” Conroy recalls. “I was worried that some people might get put off by the whole fish. But when I tell you they took it down to the bone, man… I tell you cats wouldn’t even come near it when they were done. They tore it down.”

14 Parishes offers a full bar as well as lots of live entertainment. Visit their website for the event calendar. The Jerk Sauce is available to purchase by the bottle as well.

Tucked away just off of Broad Street on Bayou Road is Coco Hut, a diminutive storefront that serves up island fare with flavors way out of proportion to its size.

Owner Motha Natcha cooks most of the food to order on an open stove on the other side of the counter, putting out a terrific array of Islandinspired meals while engag-

ing in conversation with her guests. The jerk chicken here is gloriously smoky, hacked into meaty bone-on chunks and served atop a bed of fragrant, coconut-scented Spanish rice. The menu, posted on a chalkboard daily, changes often but recently included grilled fish tacos and Hubig’s Pie-sized spicy shrimp empanadas, served piping hot from the fryer alongside a scorching green dipping sauce. No alcohol is served but sweet cane juice or hibiscus tea will quench the fire. Coco Hut is cashonly and has limited seating, but a cluster of alfresco tables expand its capacity, weather permitting. n

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Caribbean Style

14 Parishes 1638 Clio St., Central City 814-1490.

D Tues – Sat L Fri & Sat. 14Parishes.com JAMAICAN $$

Coco Hut Caribbean Restaurant 2515 Bayou Rd., Gentilly 945-8788.

L Tues-Sun. JAMAICAN/CARIBBEAN $ myneworleans.com JULY 2017

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THE MENU | restaurant INSIDER

News From the Kitchens

Port Orleans and Stokehold, Brasa Churrasqueria, Blake’s on Poydras

By Robert Peyton

Port Orleans and Stokehold Port Orleans is one of the latest in the burgeoning craft brewery movement in New Orleans. The brewery opened in May, along with Stokehold, a restaurant occupying a corner of the tap room.

About half the offerings at Stokehold are paired with one of the 7 beers on tap, and none are “bar food.” Think seared Halloumi with red gravy, basil and country ham; or wood-grilled shrimp with chili butter, corn and melon. Even items one might expect in a bar are taken to another level – there are nachos, but the house-made tortilla chips are topped with goulash (“goulachos”). Little football-shaped pretzels made with spent grain from the brewing process resemble beignets in weight and texture. They’re served over an aerated cheddar sauce that is what Cheese Whiz would be in a perfect world.

The menu comes from collaboration between the three chefs in Stokehold’s kitchen: Jeremy Wolgamott, formerly of High Hat Café; Phillip Mariano, whose experience includes chef de cuisine stints at Josephine Estelle and Domenica; and Tim Bordes, whose experience includes Lilette, Herbsaint and GW Fins. Port Orleans and Stokehold, 4124 Tchoupitoulas, open every day but Tuesday, 11-‘til, 266-2332.

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Brasa Churrasqueria

Blake’s on Poydras

Brasa Churrasqueria is about to open in the Metairie Road space formerly occupied by Chateau du Lac. It’s a South American steakhouse from chef Edgar Caro, who also operates Baru Bistro and Tapas and Basin Seafood and Spirits. Caro is from Columbia originally, and wanted to bring the food of his country and its neighbors to Old Metairie.

The menu at Brasa will be largely cooked over oak on a custom-built grill, and will include less well-known cuts of meat – such as the picanha, or sirloin cap, and entraña, or skirt steak – in addition to fillet and aged ribeye.

The a la carte offerings will include a slowroasted chicken, house-made chorizo sausage, grilled whole fish and, of course, multiple cuts of beef. Caro said the intent is for the menu to appeal to folks familiar with Argentine or Brazilian steakhouses, but also to those who prefer something more standard.

There are numerous potato dishes on the menu, including steak fries, Brabant, au gratin and a Columbian preparation in which the spuds are salt-cured. Appetizers include ceviche, soups like gazpacho and shrimp bisque and a Caesar salad with crispy chicken skin.

Brasa Churrasqueria, 2037 Metairie Rd., open for dinner only, starting at 4 p.m. (happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m.), 570-6338.

Blake’s on Poydras is a casual spot that opened in May. As one would expect for a place that serves all three meals, the menu is pretty wide-ranging, but the focus is on contemporary southern comfort food.

Fried green tomatoes show up in several items, and fortunately, they’re done well.

I’ve had them topped with pickled shrimp and remoulade sauce, but lump crab is also an option, as are poached eggs with Hollandaise and bacon, or in a BLT sandwich.

One of the most popular menu items is the chicken fried chicken, served with mashed potatoes, green beans and white gravy. It’s hard to think of something more traditionally southern than that, but there are some interesting takes on the genre; grilled okra is stuffed with jalapeno-laced goat cheese and served with pepper jelly, for example.

Chef de cuisine Dash Ellis-Dall has worked at SoBou and Gautreau’s. The restaurant is named for owner Alex Miller’s son, who is autistic, and a portion of proceeds from certain menu items will benefit the Spears Learning Center, on the north shore.

Blake’s, 920 Poydras St., open 7 days, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays, later on weekends. Breakfast available until 3 p.m., happy hour weekdays 3 until 7 p.m. 679-0991.

jeffery johnston PHOTOGRAPHs

THE MENU | FOOD

Eating Local

Making the most of a backyard harvest

By Dale Curry

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PHOTOGRAPHed and styled EUGENIA UHL

t Fresh Peach Pie a la Mode

4 ½ to 5 cups peeled peaches, seeded and sliced ¾ cup sugar ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ cup ground nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon salt 1 Tablespoon lemon juice 1/3 cup flour 2 9-inch pie crusts, homemade or refrigerated store-bought 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces 1 egg white Vanilla ice cream In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt and lemon juice. Gently stir in flour until mixed well.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

Place one crust in a 9-inch pie plate. Spoon in peaches. Dot with butter.

Cover with other piecrust, tucking edges under edges of bottom crust. Press edges together and flute. Make several slits in pastry to vent steam.

Beat egg white and brush on top crust and edges. Use only the amount necessary to cover.

Bake for 15 minutes on 450. Lower heat to 350 and bake until bubbly and browning on top, about 40 minutes. If pie is not as brown as you’d like, place under broiler for a minute or two, checking regularly.

Serve warm with scoops of ice cream.

Serves 6 to 8.

If you like fresh fruits and vegetables, July is your month. All may not be homegrown because it’s getting hot in our corner of the earth, but whatever we’re missing is probably growing just over the line in neighboring states.

Here at home we’ve got apples, cantaloupes, eggplant, peppers, melons, peaches, cucumbers, snap beans, figs, corn, okra, peas and, my favorite, butterbeans. And close-by, even tomatoes are still on the vines. In the north of our state, peaches are falling off the trees.

When I was a girl growing up in Memphis, we scoured the farmers’ markets this time of year to stock up the freezer. Things were cheap then, and my parents would buy corn by the bushel, fruits by the flat and huge bags of butterbeans and peas in the shells. There was something relaxing about shelling our own, but I can only find peas and butterbeans in the shells when I go to Gulf Shores and scour the markets near I-10.

Locals like to stuff peppers and eggplant

Stuffed Bell Peppers 6 bell peppers 1 ½ pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil 1 small onion, chopped 4 green onions, chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 pound lean ground beef 3 links Italian sausage, casings removed, about ½ pound 1 14.5-ounce can whole Roma tomatoes 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Salt, freshly ground pepper and Creole seasoning to taste Several dashes Tabasco ¾ cup Italian bread crumbs, divided 1/3 cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese 3 Tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley 2 eggs, beaten 3 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces Slice peppers in half lengthwise, and clean out stem, seeds and white pulp. Chop one of the bell

when they are cheap and stash them in the freezer. This is the time to shop for sales. My favorite recipe for stuffed peppers uses both ground beef and Italian sausage, and my latest twist is to add shrimp. Even better.

My family always had a fig tree, and a routine summer breakfast began with peeled figs, a sprinkle of sugar and light cream poured over.

When my widowed mother moved to New Orleans and bought a home, the first thing she did was to plant a fig tree in her yard. We planted our first fig tree this year. Only about five feet tall, this baby is already producing figs.

These will go into bowls with sugar and cream, I guarantee, and if there are any left, we’ll wrap them in prosciutto for appetizers and make a few jars of fig preserves.

When it comes to desserts, there is nothing like a warm fruit cobbler with vanilla ice cream - now and later. Blackberries, blueberries and peaches can be purchased in season and frozen for year-round memories of the summer.

pepper halves and set aside. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, and parboil the remaining 11 halves for 3 minutes. Place on a large baking pan and set aside.

Clean shrimp and roughly chop.

Set aside.

Heat oil in a large frying pan or medium pot, and sauté chopped pepper, onions and garlic. Add ground beef and sausage and brown, breaking meat apart. When all meat is browned, stir in tomatoes, seasonings and Tabasco, and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.

Stir occasionally. When cooked, skim off fat from the surface. Add shrimp and continue simmering until shrimp turn pink.

Remove from heat and add half the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley and eggs. Mix well and stuff into peppers. Sprinkle with remaining bread crumbs, and dot with butter.

Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 30 minutes. If not browned well on top, place under the broiler for a minute or two.

Serves 6 to 8. Freeze any remaining stuffed peppers for later use.

Fresh Fig Appetizer 2 dozen ripe figs 8 ounces gorgonzola 2 dozen pecan halves, roasted* 8 ounces prosciutto Rinse figs, pat dry and cut off stems. Slice in halves lengthwise.

Use about 1 teaspoon gorgonzola for each fig, spreading on one side. Top with pecan half and close with other half of fig.

Wrap each stuffed fig with a piece of prosciutto large enough to overlap. Combine smaller pieces when necessary. Stick a toothpick through each fig to hold it together.

Serves 12 as party appetizer. *To roast pecan halves, spread in a single layer on a cookie sheet and roast in a preheated 350-degree oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning once.

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THE MENU | Last Call

Coming Around Again Angeline’s Gimlet

By Tim McNally

The recurring rhythms of life are not lost on, or in, New Orleans. In no other place does the phrase “What goes around, comes around,” have more meaning. Traditions should be upheld. Yes, there are probably more modern methods, but the tried and true are just that, and will likely remain so.

When you respect what came before, there are bound to be many happy reunions. Such is the case with the mid-summer classic event, Tales of the Cocktail. Now in its 15th year, this gathering of professionals and amateurs from every spot on the globe, all in pursuit of grand expressions of cocktails, is an excess of good taste and good times.

Along the way, drinks of bygone eras are not discarded, they are revered and revived.

The Gimlet, named for a British naval surgeon who in the mid-1800’s was seeking a reprieve from the scourges of scurvy, saw an uptick in popularity in the late 1920’s, and the drink was again reborn in the pages of Raymond Chandler’s post World War II mystery novels.

Here, the bar staff at Restaurant Angeline in the French Quarter, presents their own version, with respect, of an old friend.

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The Gimlet

2 oz. Fords gin 0.25 Cocchi Americano 0.5 oz. lime juice 0.5 oz. lime cordial Build in tin, shake with ice. Pour into coupe-style glass. Garnish with a lime wheel.

Restaurant Angeline, 1032 Chartres St., 308-3106, AngelineNola.com.

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eugenia uhl PHOTOGRAPH

THE MENU | DINING GUIDE

H= New Orleans Magazine award winner | $ = Average entrée price | $ = $5-10

American

Zea’s Rotisserie and Grill Multiple Locations, ZeaRestaurants.com. L, D daily.

Drawing from a wide range of worldly influences, this popular restaurant serves a variety of grilled items as well as appetizers, salads, side dishes, seafood, pasta and other entrées. Also offers catering services. $$$

Bywater Elizabeth’s 601 Gallier St., 944-9272, ElizabethsRestaurantNola.com. B, L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat, Br Sat-Sun. This eclectic local restaurant draws rave reviews for its praline bacon and distinctive Southern-inspired brunch specials. $$$ Satsuma Café 3218 Dauphine St., 3045962, SatsumaCafe.com. B, L daily (until 5 p.m.). Offers healthy, inspired breakfast and lunch fare, along with freshly squeezed juices. $

carrollton Bourré 1510 S. Carrollton Ave., 510-4040.

L, D Tue-Sun. “Elevated” street food along with quality daiquiris and reconsidered wings are the draw at this newcomer from the team behind Boucherie. $$

New Orleans flair, the adjacent Polo Club Lounge offers live music nightly. Jazz Brunch on Sunday. $$$$$ Manning’s 519 Fulton St., 593-8118. L, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Born of a partnership between New Orleans’ First Family of Football and Harrah’s Casino, Manning’s offers sports bar fans a step up in terms of comfort and quality. With a menu that draws on both New Orleans and the Deep South, traditional dishes get punched up with inspired but accessible twists in surroundings accented by both memorabilia and local art. $$$ Pete’s Pub Intercontinental Hotel, 444 St. Charles Ave., 525-5566, IcNewOrleans.com/ dining/petes_pub. D Mon-Fri. Casual fare and adult beverages are served in this pub on the ground floor. $$ Q&C Hotel/Bar 344 Camp St., 587-9700, QandC.com. B, D daily, L Fri-Sun. Newly renovated boutique hotel offering a small plates menu with tempting choices such as a Short Rib Poor Boy and Lobster Mac and Cheese to complement their sophisticated craft cocktails. $$

H Root 21800 Magazine St., 309-7800,

Satsuma Maple 7901 Maple St., 309-5557, SatsumaCafe.com. B, L daily (until 5 p.m.).

Offers healthy, inspired breakfast and lunch fare, along with freshly squeezed juices. $

RootNola.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Chef Philip Lopez opened Root in November 2011 and has garnered a loyal following for his modernist, eclectic cuisine. $$$$

CITY PARK

H Restaurant August 301 Tchoupitoulas

Café NOMA 1 Collins Diboll Circle, NO Museum of Art, City Park, 482-1264, CafeNoma.com. L, (snacks) Tue-Sun. Sleek bar and café in the ground floor of museum offers a thoughtful array of snacks, sandwiches and small plates that are sure to enchant, with a kids’ menu to boot. $$

CBD/Warehouse District The Grill Room Windsor Court Hotel, 300 Gravier St., 522-6000, GrillRoomNewOrleans.com. B, L, D daily, Br Sun. Featuring modern American cuisine with a distinctive

St., 299-9777, RestaurantAugust.com. L Fri, D daily. James Beard Award-winning chef John Besh’s menu is based on classical techniques of Louisiana cuisine and produce with a splash of European flavor set in an historic carriage warehouse. $$$$$ Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar 1009 Poydras St., 309-6530, Walk-Ons.com. L, D, daily.

Burger, sandwiches, wraps and more made distinctive with a Louisiana twist are served at this sports bar near the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. $$

$$ = $11-15

$$$ = $16-20

Warehouse Grille, 869 Magazine St., 3222188, WarehouseGrille.com. L, D daily, Br Fri-Sat. Creative fare served in an art-filled environment. Try the lamb spring rolls. $$ Wolfe’s in the Warehouse 859 Convention Center Blvd., 613-2882. B, L, D daily. Chef Tom Wolfe brings his refined cuisine to the booming Fulton Street corridor. $$$

Downtown The Grill 540 Chartres St., 522-1800. B, L, D daily. A diner with local character staffed by local characters. $

Faubourg Marigny Langlois 1710 Pauger St., 934-1010, LangloisNola.com. L Fri-Sat, D Wed-Sun. *Reservations only Supper club and boutique cooking school in the Marigny serves up culturally informed, farm-to-table fare with the added bonus of instruction. Open kitchen and convivial atmosphere add up to a good time. $$$ The Marigny Brasserie 640 Frenchmen St., 945-4472, MarignyBrasserie.com. L, D daily. Chic neighborhood bistro with traditional dishes like the fried green tomatoes and innovative cocktails such as the cucumber Collins. $$$ Snug Harbor 626 Frenchman St., 9490696, SnugJazz.com. D daily. This jazz club serves cocktails and a dining menu loaded with steaks, seafood and meaty burgers served with loaded baked potatoes. $$$$

French Quarter

Angeline 1032 Chartres St., 308-3106, AngelineNola.com. B Mon-Thu, D daily, Br Sat-Sun,. Modern southern with a fine dining focus is the hallmark of this bistro tucked away in a quiet end of the French Quarter. Southern Fried Quail and Duck Confit Ravoli represent the style. $$$ Continental Provisions 110 N Peters St., Stall 23, 407-3437. Open daily. Artisan purveyors including Bellegarde Bakery,

t

$$$$ = $21-25

$$$$$ = $25 and up

St. James Cheese Co. and Cleaver & Company team up to reclaim a foothold for quality food in the tourist Ground Zero of the French Market. Sandwiches, breads, cheeses and more. $$ Hard Rock Café 125 Bourbon St., 5295617, HardRock.com. L, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Local outpost of this global brand serves burgers, café fare and drinks in their rock memorabilia-themed environs. $$ The Pelican Club 312 Exchange Place, 523-1504, PelicanClub.com. D daily. Serves an eclectic mix of hip food, from the seafood “martini” to clay-pot barbecued shrimp and a trio of duck. Three dining rooms available. $$$$$ Rib Room Omni Royal Orleans Hotel, 621 St. Louis St., 529-7046, RibRoomNewOrleans.com. B, D daily, L Mon-Sat, Br Sun. Old World elegance and high ceilings, house classic cocktails and Anthony Spizale’s broad menu of prime rib, stunning seafood and on Sundays a jazz brunch. $$$

GARDEN DISTRICT Cheesecake Bistro by Copeland’s, 2001 St. Charles Ave., 593-9955, CopelandsCheesecakeBistro.com. L Mon-Fri, D daily, Br Sun. Shiny, contemporary bistro serves Cajun-fusion fare along with its signature decadent desserts. Good lunch value to boot. $$ District Donuts Sliders Brew, 2209 Magazine Street, 570-6945, DonutsAndSliders. com. B, L, D daily. Creative sliders (hello, pork belly) and super-creative donuts (think root beer float) are the hallmarks of this next-generation café. $

Metairie Boulevard American Bistro 4241 Veterans Memorial Blvd., 889-2301. L, D daily.

Classic American cuisine including steaks, chops and more is augmented by regional favorites like Boulevard Oysters at this Metairie bistro. $$$

ARNAUD’S FRENCH 75 IS NEARLY 100 YEARS OLD

813 Bienville St., 523-5433, ArnaudsRestaurant.com In the tough business of restaurants and bars, it is a significant achievement to earn the James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program, which Arnaud’s French 75 just did. It is even more impressive when you realize the bar is located in the historic French Quarter restaurant Arnaud’s, run by the Casbarian family, which is celebrating its centennial in 2018. Chris Hannah is the master behind the wood-lined bar, and he is credited with reviving antiquated recipes and innovating classics to make the bar a destination in its own right. – Mirella Cameran 88

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café B 2700 Metairie Road, 934-4700, cafeB.com. D daily, L Mon-Fri. Br Sun. Ralph Brennan offers New American bistro fare with a Louisiana twist at this family-friendly neighborhood spot. $$$ Caffe! Caffe! 3547 N. Hullen St., 267-9190.

B, L Mon-Sat. & 4301 Clearview Parkway, 885-4845. B, L daily; D Mon-Sat. CaffeCaffe. com Healthy, refreshing meal options combine with gourmet coffee and espresso drinks to create a tasteful retreat for Metairie diners at a reasonable price. Try the egg white spinach wrap. $ Heritage Grill 111 Veterans Memorial Blvd., 934-4900, HeritageGrillMetairie.com.

L Mon-Fri. This lunch-only destination caters to the office crowd and offers a freshly squeezed juice menu to go along with its regular menu and express two-course lunch. $$ Martin Wine Cellar 714 Elmeer Ave., 8967300, MartinWineCellar.com. Wine by the glass or bottle to go with daily lunch specials, towering burgers, hearty soups and salads and giant, deli-style sandwiches. $ Vega Tapas Café 2051 Metairie Road, 836-2007, VegaTapasCafe.com. D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. Innovative establishment offers fresh seafood, grilled meats and vegetarian dishes in a chic environment. Daily chef specials showcase unique ingredients and make this place a popular destination for dates as well as groups of friends. $$

Mid-City Parkway Bakery and Tavern 538 Hagan Ave., 482-3047, ParkwayPoorBoys.com. L, D Wed-Mon. Featured on national TV and having served poor boys to presidents, it stakes a claim to some of the best sandwiches in town. Their french fry version with gravy and cheese is a classic at a great price. $

NORTHSHORE Dakota 629 N. Highway 190, (985) 8923712, TheDakotaRestaurant.com. L Tue-Fri, D Mon-Sat. A sophisticated dining experience with generous portions. $$$$$

Riverbend Carrollton Market 8132 Hampson St., 252-9928, CarrolltonMarket.com. L SatSun, D Tue-Sat. Modern Southern cuisine manages to be both fun and refined at this tasteful boîte. $$$

Uptown Audubon Clubhouse 6500 Magazine St., 212-5282, AudubonInstitute.org. B, L TueSat, Br Sun. A kid-friendly menu with local tweaks and a casually upscale sandwich and salad menu. $$ Camellia Grill 626 S. Carrollton Ave., 3092679. B, L, D daily. A venerable diner whose essential character has remained intact and many of the original waiters have returned.

Credit cards are now accepted. $ GG’s Dine-O-Rama 3100 Magazine St., 373-6579, GGsNewOrleans.com. B, L Tue-

Sun. Upscale-casual restaurant serves a variety of specialty sandwiches, salads and wraps, like the Chicago-style hot dog and the St. Paddy’s Day Massacre, chef Gotter’s take on the Rueben. $$ Martin Wine Cellar 3827 Baronne St., 8997411, MartinWine.com. Wine by the glass or bottle with cheeses, salads, sandwiches and snacks. $ Slim Goodies 3322 Magazine St., 891 EGGS (3447), SlimGoodiesDiner.com. B, L daily. This diner offers an exhaustive menu heavily influenced by local cuisine. Try the Creole Slammer, a breakfast platter rounded out by crawfish étouffée. The laid-back vibe is best enjoyed on the patio out back. $ Stein’s Market and Deli 2207 Magazine St., 527-0771, SteinsDeli.net. B, L Tue-Sun. New York City meets New Orleans. The Reuben and Rachel sandwiches are the real deal and the half-sours and pickled tomatoes complete the deli experience. $ Surrey’s Café and Juice Bar 1418 Magazine St., 524-3828; 4807 Magazine St., 895-5757, SurreysCafeAndJuiceBar.com. B, L daily. Laid-back café focuses on breakfast and brunch dishes to accompany freshly squeezed juice offerings. Health-food lovers will like it here, along with fans of favorites such as peanut butter and banana pancakes. $$

Tracey’s Irish Restaurant & Bar 2604 Magazine St., 897-5413, TraceysNola.com.

L, D daily. A neighborhood bar with one of the best messy roast beef poor boys in town. The gumbo, cheeseburger poor boy and other sandwiches are also winners.

Grab a local Abita beer to wash it all down.

Also a great location to watch the game. $

H Upperline 1413 Upperline St., 891-9822, Upperline.com. D Wed-Sun. Consummate hostess JoAnn Clevenger and talented chef Dave Bridges make for a winning combination at this nationally heralded favorite. The oft-copied fried green tomatoes with shrimp remoulade originated here. $$$$

H Wayfare 4510 Freret St., 309-0069, WayfareNola.com. L, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Creative sandwiches and southern-inspired small plates. $$ Ye Olde College Inn 3000 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-3683, CollegeInn1933.com. D TueSat. Serves up classic fare, albeit with a few upscale dishes peppering the menu. $$$

Asian Fusion/Pan Asian

Little Tokyo Multiple locations, LittleTokyoNola.com. L, D daily. Multiple locations of this popular Japanese sushi and hibachi chain make sure that there’s always a specialty roll within easy reach. $$

Bywater Red’s Chinese 3048 St. Claude Ave.,

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304-6030, RedsChinese.com. L, D daily.

Assertive, in-your-face Chinese fare by chef Tobias Womack, an alum of Danny Bowien’s Mission Chinese. The Kung Pao Pastrami and General’s Chicken are good options. $$

Thailand and Malaysia. Five-pepper calamari is a tasty way to begin the meal, and their creative sushi rolls are good. Private dining rooms available. $$

CBD/Warehouse District

B, L, D daily. Roasted quail and the beef pho rule at this Vietnamese outpost. $$

Rock-N-Sake 823 Fulton St., 581-7253, RockNSake.com. L Fri, D Tue-Sun, late night Fri-Sat. Fresh sushi and contemporary takes on Japanese favorites in an upbeat, casual setting. $$$

Faubourg Marigny Bao and Noodle 2700 Charters St., 2720004, BaoAndNoodle.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Housemade noodles and a more authentic take on Chinese fare sets this neighborhood startup apart. Try the soup dumplings if available $$

French Quarter V Sushi 821 Iberville St., 609-2291, VSushiMartini.com. D daily, late-night. Creative rolls and a huge list of fusion dishes keep party-lovers going late into the night at this combination sushi and martini bar. $$$

Garden District Hoshun Restaurant 1601 St. Charles Ave., 302-9716, HoshunRestaurant.com. L, D daily. Offers a wide variety of Asian cuisines, primarily dishes culled from China, Japan,

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Gretna H Tan Dinh 1705 Lafayette St., 361-8008.

Kenner Little Chinatown 3800 Williams Blvd., 305-0580, LittleChinatown.net. L, D daily.

One of the city’s best Chinese restaurants is secreted away on William’s Boulevard in Kenner. Try the roast duck or roast pork, either one is terrific, as well as their short menu of authentic dishes that (for the most part) avoid Americanized Chinese fare. $$

Lakeview Lakeview Pearl 6300 Canal St., 309-5711, LakeviewPearl.com. L, D Mon-Sat. A long list of specialty rolls rounds out the offerings of this Asian-Fusion restaurant. $$

Metairie CoNola Grill & Sushi 619 Pink St., 8370055, CoNolaGrillSushi.com. L, D Tue-Sun. Eclectic cafe with DNA from both Sun Ray Grill and Aloha Sushi Bar puts out southerninspired fare backed by an Americanized sushi menu, a kids menu and more. Along with a Sunday brunch, there’s something

for everyone at this independent restaurant. $$$

interesting poor boy menu rounds out the appeal. $$$

H Royal China 600 Veterans Blvd.,

Riverbend H Ba Chi Canteen 7900 Maple St., 373-

831-9633. L daily, D Tue-Sun. Popular and family-friendly Chinese restaurant is one of the few places around that serves dim sum. $$

MARRERO

5628. L, D Mon-Sat. The kitchen plays fast and loose with Vietnamese fare at this eclectic outpost on Maple Street. Try the caramelized pork “Baco”. $

Daiwa, 5033 Lapalco Blvd., 875-4203, DaiwaSushi.com. L, D daily. Japanese destination on the Westbank serves an impressive and far-ranging array of creative fusion fare. $$$

H Chill Out Café 729 Burdette St.,

Mid-City H Café Minh 4139 Canal St., 482-6266,

Uptown

CafeMinh.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Chef Minh Bui and Cynthia Vutran bring a fusion touch to Vietnamese cuisine with French accents and a contemporary flair. $$ Five Happiness 3605 S. Carrollton Ave., 482-3935, FiveHappiness.com. L, D daily.

This longtime Chinese favorite offers up an extensive menu including its beloved mu shu pork and house-baked duck. $$

H MoPho 514 City Park Ave., 482-6845, MoPhoNola.com. L, D Wed-Mon. Vietnamese cuisine meets southern Louisiana in this upscale casual hybrid by chef Michael Gulotta. Mix-and-match pho and an

872-9628. B, L daily, D Mon-Sat. Thai food and breakfast favorites like waffles and pancakes can both be had at this affordable college-friendly hangout. $ Chiba 8312 Oak St., 826-9119, Chiba-Nola. com. L Wed-Sat, D Mon-Sat. Contemporary restaurant features fresh, exotic fish from all over the world and fusion fare to go along with typical Japanese options. Extensive sake list and late night happy hours are a plus. $$$

H Jung’s Golden Dragon 3009 Magazine St., 891-8280, JungsChinese.com. L, D daily.

This Chinese destination is a real find. Along with the usual, you’ll find spicy cold noodle dishes and dumplings. One of the few local Chinese places that breaks the Americanized mold. $

H Magasin 4201 Magazine St., 896-7611,

MagasinCafe.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Pho, banh mi and vegetarian options are offered at this attractive and budget-friendly Vietnamese restaurant. Café sua da is available as well. $

WEST BANK Nine Roses 1100 Stephen St., 366-7665, NineRosesResturant.com. L, D Sun-Tue, Thu-Sat. The extensive Vietnamese menu specializes in hot pots, noodles and dishes big enough for everyone to share. $$

Bakery/Breakfast

Café du Monde Multiple Locations, CafeDuMonde.com. This New Orleans institution has been serving fresh café au lait, rich hot chocolate and positively addictive beignets since 1862 in the French Market 24/7. $ CC’s Coffee House Multiple locations in New Orleans, Metairie and Northshore, CCsCoffee.com. Coffeehouse specializing in coffee, espresso drinks and pastries. $

BROADMOOR Gracious to Go 7220 Earhart Blvd., 3013709, GraciousBakery.com. B Mon-Fri. Quick-service outpost of Gracious Bakery + Café serves artisan pastries, locally roasted coffee and grab-and-go sandwiches to meet the needs of commuters. Onsite park-

ing a plus. $

CBD/Warehouse District H Merchant 800 Common St., 571-9580, MerchantNewOrleans.com. B, L daily. Illy coffee and creative crêpes, sandwiches and more are served at this sleek and contemporary café on the ground floor of the Merchant Building. $ Red Gravy 4125 Camp St., 561-8844, RedGravy.com. B, Br, L, Wed-Mon. Farmto-table Italian restaurant offers a creative array of breakfast items such as Cannoli Pancakes and Skillet Cakes, as well as delectable sandwiches and more for lunch.

Homemade pastas and authentic Tuscan specialties round out the menu. $$

H Ruby Slipper Café 200 Magazine St., 525-9355; 1005 Canal St., 525-9355, TheRubySlipperCafe.net. B, L daily, Br Sun. Homegrown chain specializes in breakfast, lunch and brunch dishes with unique local twists such as bananas Foster French toast and barbecue shrimp and grits. $$

CARROLLTON Breads on Oak, 8640 Oak St., 324-8271, BreadsOnOak.com. B, L Wed-Sun. Artisan bakeshop tucked away near the levee on Oak Street serves breads, sandwiches, gluten-free and vegan-friendly options. $

City Park Morning Call 56 Dreyfous Drive, City Park, 885-4068, NewOrleansCityPark.com/ in-the-park/morning-call. 24 hours a day; cash-only. Chicory coffee and beignets coated with powdered sugar make this the quintessential New Orleans coffee shop. $

Faubourg Marigny H Ruby Slipper Café 2001 Burgundy St., 525-9355, TheRubySlipperCafe.net. B, L daily, Br Sun. Homegrown chain specializes in breakfast, lunch and brunch dishes with unique local twists such as bananas Foster French toast and barbecue shrimp and grits. $$

Mid-City Gracious Bakery + Café 1000 S. Jeff Davis Parkway, Suite 100, 301-3709, GraciousBakery.com. B, L daily. Boutique bakery on the ground floor of the Woodward Building offers small-batch coffee, baked goods, individual desserts and sandwiches on breads made in-house. Catering options available. $

H Ruby Slipper Café 139 S. Cortez St., 5259355, TheRubySlipperCafe.net. B, L daily, Br Sun. Homegrown chain specializes in breakfast, lunch and brunch dishes with unique local twists such as bananas Foster French toast and barbecue shrimp and grits. $$

Barbecue Bywater

The Joint 701 Mazant St., 949-3232, AlwaysSmokin.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Some of the city’s best barbecue can be had at this locally owned and operated favorite. $

French Quarter BB King’s Blues Club 1104 Decatur St., 934-5464, BBKings.com/new-orleans. L, D daily. New Orleans outpost of music club named for the famed blues musician features a menu loaded with BBQ and southern-inspired specialties. Live music and late hours are a big part of the fun. $$$

Lower Garden District Voodoo BBQ 1501 St. Charles Ave., 522-4647, VoodooBBQAndGrill.com. L, D daily. Diners are never too far from this homegrown barbecue chain that features an array of specialty sauces to accompany its smoked meats and seafood. $$

Metairie Voodoo BBQ 2740 Severn Ave., 353-4227, VoodooBBQAndGrill.com. L, D daily. Diners are never too far from this homegrown barbecue chain that features an array of specialty sauces to accompany its smoked meats and seafood. $$

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DINING GUIDE Burgers

French Quarter Bayou Burger, 503 Bourbon St., 529-4256, SportsBarNewOrleans.com. L, D daily.

Sports bar in the thick of Bourbon Street scene distinguishes its fare with choices like Crawfish Beignets and Gator Bites. $$ Port of Call 838 Esplanade Ave., 523-0120, PortOfCallNola.com. L, D daily. It is all about the big, meaty burgers and giant baked potatoes in this popular bar/restaurant – unless you’re cocktailing only, then it’s all about the Monsoons. $$

Lakeview Lakeview Harbor 911 Harrison Ave., 4864887. L, D daily. Burgers are the name of the game at this restaurant. Daily specials, pizza and steaks are offered as well. $

Riverbend H Cowbell 8801 Oak St., 298-8689, Cowbell-Nola.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Burgers and homemade sauces on potato rolls are the specialty here, along with other favorites like skirt steak. $$

Uptown H The Company Burger 4600 Freret St., 267-0320, TheCompanyBurger.com. L, D daily. Custom-baked butter-brushed buns and fresh-ground beef patties make all the difference at this excellent burger hotspot.

Draft beer and craft cocktails round out the appeal. $

French

Faubourg St. John H Café Degas 3127 Esplanade Ave., 945-5635, CafeDegas.com. L, D Wed-Sat, Br Sun. Salad Niçoise, Hanger steak and frites are served in a lovely enclosed courtyard at this jewel of a French bistro. $$

French Quarter Broussard’s, 819 Conti St., 581-3866, Broussards.com. D daily, Br Sun. CreoleFrench institution also offers beautiful courtyard seating. $$$$

H Marti’s 1041 Dumaine St., 522-5478, MartisNola.com. L Fri, D daily. Classic French cuisine, small plates and chilled

seafood platters like Grand Plateau Fruits De Mer are the calling cards for this restaurant with an elegant “Old World” feel. $$$

Lacombe H La Provence 25020 Highway 190, (985) 626-7662, LaProvenceRestaurant. com. D Wed-Sun, Br Sun. Chef John Besh upholds time-honored Provençal cuisine and rewards his guests with a true farm-life experience, from house-made preserves, charcuterie, herbs, kitchen gardens and eggs cultivated on the property. $$$$$

Uptown Bistro Daisy 5831 Magazine St., 899-6987, BistroDaisy.com. D Tue-Sat. Chef Anton Schulte and his wife Diane’s bistro serves creative and contemporary bistro fare in a romantic setting. The signature Daisy Salad is a favorite. $$$$

H Coquette 2800 Magazine St., 265-0421, CoquetteNola.com. L Fri, D daily, Br Sun. The food is French in inspiration and technique, with added imagination from chef Michael and his partner Lillian Hubbard. $$$

H La Crêpe Nanou 1410 Robert St., 8992670, LaCrepeNanou.com. D daily, Br Sun. Classic French bistro fare, including terrific moules and decadent dessert crêpes, are served nightly at this neighborhood institution. $$$ La Petite Grocery 4238 Magazine St., 891-3377, LaPetiteGrocery.com. L Tue-Sat, D daily, Br Sun. Elegant dining in a convivial atmosphere. The menu is heavily French-inspired with an emphasis on technique. $$$ Lilette 3637 Magazine St., 895-1636, LiletteRestaurant.com. L Tue-Sat, D Mon-Sat. Chef John Harris’ innovative menu draws discerning diners to this highly regarded bistro. Desserts are wonderful as well. $$$$$

Gastropub

namesake eatery. “Tasteful” tours available for visitors. $$

CBD/Warehouse District Gordon Biersch 200 Poydras St., 5522739, GordonBiersch.com. L, D daily.

Local outpost of this popular chain serves specialty brews made on-site and crowdpleasing lunch and dinner fare. $$ Victory 339 Baronne St., 522-8664, VictoryNola.com. D daily. Craft cocktails served by owner and acclaimed bartender Daniel Victory, as well as refined small plates and gourmet pizza. $$

French Quarter H Cane & Table 1113 Decatur St., 581-1112, CaneAndTableNola.com. L Fri, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Open late, this chefdriven rustic colonial cuisine and rum and “proto-Tiki” cocktails make this a fun place to gather. $$ Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro 720 Orleans Ave., 523-1930, OrleansGrapevine.com. D daily. Wine is the muse at this beautifully renovated bistro, which offers vino by the flight, glass and bottle.

A classic menu with an emphasis on local cuisine. $$$

H Patrick’s Bar Vin 730 Bienville St., 200-3180, PatricksBarVin.com. D daily. This oasis of a wine bar offers terrific selections by the bottle and glass. Small plates are served as well. $$

Lower Garden District The Tasting Room 1906 Magazine St., 581-3880, TTRNewOrleans.com. D Tue-Sun. Flights of wine and sophisticated small plates are the calling cards for this wine bar near Coliseum Square. $$

Mid-City Trèo 3835 Tulane Ave., 304-4878, TreoNola.com. L Fri-Sat, D daily. Craft cocktail bar also serves a short but excellent small plates menu to accompany its artfully composed libations. $$

Abita Springs

Uptown

Abita Brew Pub 72011 Holly St., (985) 892-5837, AbitaBrewPub.com. L, D TueSun. Better-than-expected pub food in its

The Avenue Pub 1732 St. Charles Ave., 586-9243, TheAvenuePub.com. Kitchen open 24/7. With more than 43 rotating draft

t

beers, this pub also offers food, including a cheese plate from St. James Cheese Co. and the “Pub Burger.” Counter service only. $ Bouligny Tavern 3641 Magazine St., 891-1810, BoulignyTavern.com. D Mon-Sat. Carefully curated small plates, inventive cocktails and select wines are the focus of this stylish offshoot of John Harris’s nationally acclaimed Lilette. $$ The Delachaise 3442 St. Charles Ave., 8950858, TheDelaichaise.com. D daily. Cuisine elevated to the standards of the libations is the draw at this lively wine bar and gastropub. Food is grounded in French bistro fare with eclectic twists. $$

Italian

Avondale H Mosca’s 4137 Highway 90 West, 4368950, MoscasRestaurant.com. D Tue-Sat. Italian institution dishes out massive portions of great food, family-style. Good bets are the shrimp Mosca and chicken à la grande. Cash only. $$$

Bywater H Mariza 2900 Charters St., 598-5700, MarizaNewOrleans.com. D Tue-Sat. An Italian-inspired restaurant by chef Ian Schnoebelen features a terrific raw bar, house-cured charcuterie and an array of refined adult beverages served in the industrial/contemporary setting on the ground floor of the Rice Mills lofts. $$$

CBD/Warehouse District H Domenica The Roosevelt Hotel, 123 Baronne St., 648-6020, DomenicaRestaurant.com. L, D daily. Chef Alon Shaya serves authentic, regional Italian cuisine.

The menu of thin, lightly topped pizzas, artisanal salumi and cheese, and a carefully chosen selection of antipasti, pasta and entrées features locally raised products, some from chef John Besh’s Northshore farm. $$$$ Tommy’s Cuisine 746 Tchoupitoulas St., 581-1103, TommysNewOrleans.com. D daily. Classic Creole-Italian cuisine is the name of the game at this upscale eatery.

NEW CREOLE COOKING ON BOURBON

208 Bourbon St., 300-1800 The Rizzuto family has long been a part of the culture and cuisine in New Orleans, from early beginnings as a simple Vieux Carré grocery stand, founded by their immigrant ancestors, to their present-day, new restaurant concept, Creole Carré.

At Creole Carré, the menu showcases the many flavors and colors of the Rizzutos’ Sicilian roots and Creole influences. From classic Italian entrees such as Crab & Lobster Ravioli to Creole classics such as Seafood Gumbo, you’ll find exceptional cooking whether you are in the mood for a steak, a seafood platter or just a poor boy. – M.C. 92

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Appetizers include the namesake oysters Tommy, baked in the shell with Romano cheese, pancetta and roasted red pepper. $$$$$

local classics while dining in the courtyard bar or any other room in this labyrinthine, rumored-to-be-haunted establishment. $$$$

French Quarter

Napoleon House 500 Chartres St., 5249752, NapoleonHouse.com. L Mon-Sat, D Tue-Sat. Originally built in 1797 as a respite for Napoleon, this family-owned Europeanstyle café serves local favorites gumbo, jambalaya and muffulettas, and for sipping, a Sazerac or lemony Pimm’s Cup are perfect accompaniments. $$

Café Giovanni 117 Decatur St., 529-2154, CafeGiovanni.com. D daily. Live opera singers three nights a week. A selection of Italian specialties tweaked with a Creole influence and their Belli Baci happy hour adds to the atmosphere. $$$$ Chartres House, 601 Chartres St., 5868383, ChartresHouse.com. L, D daily. This iconic French Quarter bar serves terrific Mint Juleps and Gin Fizzes in its picturesque courtyard and balcony settings. Also famous for its fried green tomatoes and other local favorite dishes. $$$ Irene’s Cuisine 539 St. Philip St., 5298881. D Mon-Sat. Long waits at the lively piano bar are part of the appeal of this Creole-Italian favorite beloved by locals.

Try the oysters Irene and crabmeat gratin appetizers. $$$$

H Italian Barrel 430 Barracks St., 5690198, ItalianBarrel.com. L, D daily. Northern Italian dishes like Braciola di Maiale as well as an exhaustive pasta menu tempt here at this local favorite that also offers al fresco seating. $$$ Muriel’s Jackson Square 801 Chartres St., 568-1885, Muriels.com. L, D daily, Br SatSun. Enjoy pecan-crusted drum and other

Ralph Brennan’s Red Fish Grill 115 Bourbon St., 598-1200, RedFishGrill.com. L, D daily. Chef Austin Kirzner cooks up a broad menu peppered with local favorites such as barbecue oysters, blackened redfish and double-chocolate bread pudding. $$$$$ Arnaud’s Remoulade 309 Bourbon St., 523-0377, Remoulade.com. L, D daily.

Granite-topped tables and an antique mahogany bar are home to the eclectic menu of famous shrimp Arnaud, red beans and rice and poor boys as well as specialty burgers, grilled all-beef hot dogs and thincrust pizza. $$

H R’evolution 777 Bienville St., 553-2277, RevolutionNola.com. L Fri, D daily, Br Sun. An opulent place that combines the local flavors of chef John Folse with the more cosmopolitan influence of chef Rick Tramonto. Chef de cuisine Chris Lusk and executive sous chef Erik Veney are in charge of day-to-day operations, which include

house-made charcuterie, pastries, pastas and more. $$$$$

chuletta,” stuffed artichokes and andouille gumbo. Kid’s menu offered. $$

harahan

Ralph’s On The Park 900 City Park Ave., 488-1000, RalphsOnThePark.com. Br Sun, L Tue-Fri, D daily. A modern interior and contemporary Creole dishes such as City Park salad, turtle soup, barbecue Gulf shrimp and good cocktails. $$$$

Oak Oven 6625 Jefferson Highway, Harahan, 305-4039, OakOvenRestaurant.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Wood-fired pizza and seasonal Italian cuisine with a locavore philosophy brings respite to the burbs. Family friendly with patio seating to boot. $$

Metairie H Andrea’s Restaurant 3100 19th St., 834-8583, AndreasRestaurant.com. L MonSat, D daily, Br Sun. Osso buco and homemade pastas in a setting that’s both elegant and intimate; off-premise catering. $$$ Semolina 4436 Veterans Blvd., Suite 37, 454-7930, Semolina.com. L, D daily. This casual, contemporary pasta restaurant takes a bold approach to cooking Italian food, emphasizing flavors, texture and color. Many of the dishes feature a signature Louisiana twist, such as the muffuletta pasta and pasta jambalaya. $$ Vincent’s Italian Cuisine 4411 Chastant St., 885-2984, Metairie, VicentsItalianCuisine.com. L Tue-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Snug Italian boîte packs them in, yet manages to remain intimate at the same time. The cannelloni is a house specialty. $$$

Mid-City H Liuzza’s 3636 Bienville St., 482-9120, Liuzzas.com. L, D daily. Classic neighborhood joint serves favorites like the “Fren-

NORTHSHORE H Del Porto Ristorante 501 E. Boston St., (985) 875-1006, DelPortoRistorante.com. L, D Tue-Sat. One of the Northshore’s premier fine dining destinations serving Italian food that makes use of locally sourced meats and produce. $$$

Uptown Amici 3218 Magazine St., 300-1250, AmiciNola.com. L, D daily. Coal-fired pizza is the calling card for this destination, but the menu offers an impressive list of authentic and Creole Italian specialties as well. $$ Pascal’s Manale 1838 Napoleon Ave., 895-4877, PascalsManale.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Vintage neighborhood restaurant since 1913 and the place to go for the creation of barbecued shrimp. Its oyster bar serves icy cold, freshly shucked Louisiana oysters and the Italian specialties and steaks are also solid. $$$$ Vincent’s Italian Cuisine 7839 St. Charles Ave., 866-9313, VicentsItalianCuisine. com. L Tue-Fri, D Tue-Sun. Snug Italian boîte packs them in yet manages to remain

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Louisianian Fare

CBD/Warehouse District H Annunciation 1016 Annunciation St., 568-0245, AnnunciationRestaurant.com.

D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. Chef Steven Manning brings a refined sensibility to this refined Warehouse District oasis along with his famous fried oysters with melted brie. $$$ Balise 640 Carondelet St., 459-4449, BaliseNola.com. L Tue-Fri, D daily, Br SatSun. Chef Justin Devillier turns back the clock at this turn-of-the-century inspired bistro in the CBD. Decidedly masculine fare – think beef tartare with horseradish and pumpernickel – is carefully crafted and fits well alongside the excellent cocktail and beer list. $$$ Bon Ton Cafe 401 Magazine St., 524-3386, TheBonTonCafe.com. L, D Mon-Fri. A local favorite for the old-school business lunch crowd specializing in local seafood and Cajun dishes. $$$$ Café Adelaide Loews New Orleans Hotel, 300 Poydras St., 595-3305, CafeAdelaide. com. B, L Mon-Fri, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. This offering from the Commander’s Palace family of restaurants has become a power-

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lunch favorite for business-people and politicos. Also features the Swizzle Stick Bar. $$$$

H Cochon 930 Tchoupitoulas St., 588-2123, CochonRestaurant.com. L, D, Mon-Sat. Chefs Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski showcase Cajun and Southern cuisine at this hot spot. Boudin and other pork dishes reign supreme here, along with Louisiana seafood and real moonshine from the bar. Reservations strongly recommended. $$ Drago’s Hilton Riverside Hotel, 2 Poydras St., 584-3911, DragosRestaurant.com. L, D daily. This famous seafooder specializes in charbroiled oysters, a dish they invented.

Great deals on fresh lobster as well. $$$$ Emeril’s 800 Tchoupitoulas St., 528-9393, EmerilsRestaurants.com. L Mon-Fri, D daily. The flagship of superstar chef Emeril Lagasse’s culinary empire, this landmark attracts pilgrims from all over the world. $$$$$

H Herbsaint 701 St. Charles Ave., 5244114, Herbsaint.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Enjoy a sophisticated cocktail before sampling chef Donald Link’s menu that melds contemporary bistro fare with classic Louisiana cuisine. The banana brown butter tart is a favorite dessert. $$$$$

Mother’s 401 Poydras St., 523-9656, MothersRestaurant.net. B, L, D daily. Locals and tourists alike endure long queues and a confounding ordering system to enjoy iconic dishes such as the Ferdi poor boy and Jerry’s jambalaya. Come for a late lunch to avoid the rush. $$ Mulate’s 201 Julia St., 522-1492, Mulates. com. L, D daily. Live music and dancing add to the fun at this world-famous Cajun destination. $$

Central City Café Reconcile 1631 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., 568-1157, CafeReconcile.org. L Mon-Fri. Good food for a great cause, this nonprofit on the burgeoning OCH corridor helps train at-risk youth for careers in the food service industry. $$

Darrow Café Burnside Houmas House Plantation, 40136 Highway 942, (225) 473-9380, HoumasHouse.com. L daily, Br Sun. Historic plantation’s casual dining option features dishes such as seafood pasta, fried catfish, crawfish and shrimp, gumbo and red beans and rice. $$ Latil’s Landing Houmas House Plantation, 40136 Highway 942, (225) 473-9380, HoumasHouse.com. D Wed-Sun. Nouvelle Louisiane, plantation-style cooking served in an opulent setting features dishes like

rack of lamb and plume de veau. $$$$$

Faubourg Marigny Feelings Cafe, Bar and Courtyard Lounge 535 Franklin Ave, 446-0040, FeelingsCafeBar.com. D Tue-Sat, L Fri. The All New Feelings Marigny is a complete relaunch of the much beloved “Feelings Cafe”. Under the guidance of new ownership and Executive Chef Scott Maki, everything has been completely transformed into one of the most absolutely charming neighborhood restaurants in the area. Chef Maki’s emphasis on contemporary Creole-Louisiana fare is winning diners over from near and far.$$$$ Horn’s 1940 Dauphine St., Marigny, 4594676, HornsNola.com. B, L daily, D Thu-Sun. This casual, eclectic watering hole offers offbeat twists on classics (the Jewish Coonass features latkes to go with the crawfish etouffée) as well as the usual breakfast and lunch diner fare. $ Praline Connection 542 Frenchmen St., 943-3934, PralineConnection.com. L, D daily. Down-home dishes of smothered pork chops, greens, beans and cornbread are on the menu at this Creole soul restaurant. $$

French Quarter Acme Oyster House 724 Iberville St., 5225973, AcmeOyster.com. L, D daily. Known as

one of the best places to eat oysters. $$

H Arnaud’s 813 Bienville St., 523-5433, ArnaudsRestaurant.com. D daily, Br Sun. Waiters in tuxedos prepare Café Brûlot tableside at this storied Creole grande dame; live jazz during Sun. brunch. $$$$$ Antoine’s 713 St. Louis St., 581-4422, Antoines.com. L, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. This pinnacle of haute cuisine and birthplace of oysters Rockefeller is New Orleans’ oldest restaurant. (Every item is à la carte, with an $11 minimum.) Private dining rooms available. $$$$$

H The Bistreaux New Orleans Maison Dupuy Hotel, 1001 Toulouse St., 586-8000, MaisonDupuy.com/dining.html. B, L, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Dishes ranging from the casual (truffle mac and cheese) to the upscale (tuna tasting trio) are served in an elegant courtyard. $$ The Bombay Club Prince Conti Hotel, 830 Conti St., 577-2237, TheBombayClub.com.

D daily. Popular martini bar with plush British décor features live music during the week and late dinner and drinks on weekends. Nouveau Creole menu includes items such as Bombay drum. $$$$ Café Maspero 601 Decatur St., 523-6250, CafeMaspero.com. L, D daily. Tourists line up for their generous portions of seafood and large deli sandwiches. $ Court of Two Sisters 613 Royal St., 522-7261, CourtOfTwoSisters.com. Br,

D daily. The historic environs make for a memorable outdoor dining experience. The famous daily Jazz Brunch buffet and classic Creole dishes sweeten the deal. $$$$$ Criollo Hotel Monteleone, 214 Royal St., 681-4444, CriolloNola.com. B, L, D daily.

Next to the famous Carousel Bar in the historic Monteleone Hotel, Criollo represents an amalgam of the various cultures reflected in Louisiana cooking and cuisine, often with a slight contemporary twist. $$$

Sat, D Mon-Sat. Paul Prudhomme’s landmark restaurant helped introduce Cajun food to a grateful nation. Lots of seasoning and bountiful offerings, along with reserved seating, make this a destination for locals and tourists alike. $$$$ NOLA 534 St. Louis St., 522-6652, EmerilsRestaurants.com/Nola-Restaurant. L Thu-Mon, D daily. Emeril’s more affordable eatery, featuring cedar-plank-roasted redfish; private dining. $$$$$

Galatoire’s 209 Bourbon St., 525-2021, Galatoires.com. L, D Tue-Sun. Friday lunches are a New Orleans tradition at this world-famous French-Creole grand dame.

Tradition counts for everything here, and the crabmeat Sardou is delicious. Note: Jackets required for dinner and all day Sun. $$$$$

Richard Fiske’s Martini Bar & Restaurant, 301 Dauphine St., 586-0972, RichardFiskes.com. B, Bar Lunch daily. Just a few steps off of Bourbon Street you can find this relaxing bar featuring an innovative menu with dishes like Crawfish, Jalapeno-andBacon Mac and Cheese garnished with fried oysters. Live music a plus. $$$

House of Blues 225 Decatur St., 310-4999, HouseOfBlues.com/NewOrleans. L, D daily.

Surprisingly good menu complements music in the main room. World-famous Gospel Brunch every Sunday. Patio seating available. $$

Royal House, 441 Royal St., 528-2601, RoyalHouseRestaurant.com. L, D daily. B Sat and Sun. Poor boys, jambalaya and shrimp Creole are some of the favorites served here. Weekend breakfast and an oyster bar add to the crowd-pleasing appeal. $$$

Killer Poboys 811 Conti St., 252-6745, KillerPoboys.blogspot.com. L, D Wed-Mon. This quasi-popup operating out of the Erin Rose Bar serves some of the city’s best poor boys, including one featuring glazed pork belly. $ K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen 416 Chartres St., 596-2530, ChefPaul.com/KPaul. L Thu-

SoBou 310 Chartres St., 552-4095, SoBouNola.com. B, L, D daily. There is something for everyone at this “Modern Creole Saloon.” Decidedly unstuffy with an emphasis on craft cocktails and wines by the glass. Everything from $1 pork cracklins to an extravagant foie gras burger on accomplished yet eclectic menus. $$

H Tableau 616 S. Peter St., 934-3463, TableauFrenchQuarter.com. B Mon-Fri, L MonSat, D daily, Brunch Sat-Sun. Gulf seafood such as Redfish Bienville and classic Creole brunch dishes like eggs Hussard are the highlights of this Dickie Brennan restaurant that shares space with Le Petite Théâtre on the corner of Jackson Square. $$$

H Tujague’s 823 Decatur St., 525-8676, TujaguesRestaurant.com. L, D daily, Br SatSun. For more than 150 years this landmark restaurant has been offering Creole cuisine.

Favorites include a nightly six-course table d’hôté menu featuring a unique beef brisket with Creole sauce. $$$$$

Kenner Copeland’s 1319 W. Esplanade Ave., 617-9146, CopelandsofNewOrleans.com.

L, D daily, Br Sun. Al Copeland’s namesake chain includes favorites such as Shrimp Ducky. Popular for lunch. $$

Lakeview H Cava 789 Harrison Ave., 304-9034. D daily. Fine dining (and excellent wine list) at this high-end Cajun and Creole restaurant that makes customer service a big part of the experience. $$$

Metairie/Jefferson Acme Oyster House 3000 Veterans Blvd., 309-4056, AcmeOyster.com. L, D daily.

Known as one of the best places to eat oysters. $$ Austin’s 5101 W. Esplanade Ave., 888-

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5533, AustinsNo.com. D Mon-Sat. Mr. Ed’s upscale bistro serves contemporary Creole fare, including seafood and steaks. $$$

Marketplace with open dining space houses a broad collection of independent eateries including craft cocktails and more. $$

Copeland’s 1001 S. Clearview Parkway, 620-7800; 701 Veterans Blvd., 831-3437, CopelandsofNewOrleans.com. L, D daily, Br Sun. Al Copeland’s namesake chain includes favorites such as Shrimp Ducky.

Popular for lunch. $$

NORTHSHORE

Crabby Jack’s 428 Jefferson Highway, 833-2722, CrabbyJacksNola.com. L Mon-Sat. Lunch outpost of Jacques-Imo’s.

Famous for its fried seafood and poor boys including fried green tomatoes and roasted duck. $ Drago’s 3232 N. Arnoult Road, 888-9254, DragosRestaurant.com. L, D Mon-Sat. This famous seafooder specializes in charbroiled oysters, a dish they invented. Great deals on fresh lobster as well. $$$$

Mid-City H Katie’s Restaurant and Bar 3701 Iberville St., 488-6582, KatiesInMidCity.com. L, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. Creative poor boys, local dishes such as gumbo and Sunday brunch make this a neighborhood favorite. $$ Lil’ Dizzy’s Café 1500 Esplanade Ave., 5698997, LilDizzysCafe.com. B, L daily, Br Sun. Spot local and national politicos dining at this favored Creole soul restaurant known for homey classics like fried chicken and trout Baquet. $

H Mandina’s 3800 Canal St., 482-9179, MandinasRestaurant.com. L, D daily.

Though the ambiance is more upscale, the food and seafood dishes make dining here a New Orleans experience. $$

H Toups’ Meatery 845 N. Carrollton Ave., 252-4999, ToupsMeatery.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Charcuterie, specialty cocktails and an exhaustive list of excellent à la carte sides make this restaurant a carnivore’s delight. $$$

Upper 9th Ward St. Roch Market 2381 St. Claude Ave., 615-6541, StRochMarket.com. B, L, D daily.

Beautiful restoration of historic St. Claude

Acme Oyster House 1202 N. Highway 190, Covington, (985) 246-6155, AcmeOyster. com. L, D daily. Known as one of the best places to eat oysters. $$ Gallagher’s Grill 509 S. Tyler St., (985) 892-9992, GallaghersGrill.com. L, D TueSat. Chef Pat Gallagher’s destination restaurant offers al fresco seating to accompany classically inspired New Orleans fare. Event catering offered. $$$

Riverbend H Boucherie 1506 S. Carrollton Ave., 862-5514, Boucherie-Nola.com. L Tue-Sat, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. Serving contemporary Southern food with an international angle, chef Nathaniel Zimet offers excellent ingredients presented simply. $$ Brigtsen’s 723 Dante St., 861-7610, Brigtsens.com. D Tue-Sat. Chef Frank Brigtsen’s nationally famous Creole cuisine makes this cozy cottage a true foodie destination. $$$$$

Uptown H Apolline 4729 Magazine St., 894-8881, ApollineRestaurant.com. D Tue-Sun, Br Sat-Sun. Cozy gem serves a refined menu of French and Creole classics peppered with Southern influences such as buttermilk fried quail with corn waffle. $$$ Casamento’s 4330 Magazine St., 895-9761, CasamentosRestaurant.com. L Thu-Sat, D Thu-Sun. The family-owned restaurant has shucked oysters and fried seafood since 1919; closed during summer and for all major holidays. $$

of James Beard Award-winner chef Tory McPhail. Jazz Brunch is a great deal. $$$$

includes favorites such as Shrimp Ducky.

Popular for lunch. $$

Dick and Jenny’s 4501 Tchoupitoulas St., 894-9880, DickAndJennys.com. D Mon-Sat. A funky cottage serving Louisiana comfort food with flashes of innovation. $$$$

Pizza

Domilise’s 5240 Annunciation St., 899912. L, D Mon-Sat. Local institution and riteof-passage for those wanting an initiation to the real New Orleans. Wonderful poor boys and a unique atmosphere make this a one-of-a-kind place. $

H Gautreau’s 1728 Soniat St., 899-7397, GautreausRestaurant.com. D Mon-Sat. Upscale destination serves refined interpretations of classics along with contemporary creations. $$$$$ Jacques-Imo’s Cafe 8324 Oak St., 8610886, Jacques-Imos.com. D Mon-Sat. Reinvented New Orleans cuisine served in a party atmosphere. The deep-fried roast beef poor boy is delicious. The lively bar scene offsets the long wait on weekends. $$$$

Reginelli’s Pizzeria Multiple Locations, Reginellis.com. L, D daily. Pizzas, pastas, salads, fat calzones and lofty focaccia sandwiches are at locations all over town. $$ Theo’s Pizza Multiple Locations, TheosPizza.com. L, D daily. The crackercrisp crust pizzas are complemented by a broad assortment of toppings with a lot of local ingredients at cheap prices. $$

Bywater H Pizza Delicious 617 Piety St., 676-8482, PizzaDelicious.com. L, D Tue-Sun. Authentic New York-style thin crust pizza is the reason to come to this affordable restaurant that began as a pop-up, but they also offer excellent salads sourced from small farms and homemade pasta dishes as well. Outdoor seating a plus. $

Uptown H Ancora 4508 Freret St., 324-1636,

Joey K’s 3001 Magazine St., 891-0997, JoeyKsRestaurant.com. L, D Mon-Sat. A true neighborhood restaurant with daily lunch plates; red beans and rice are classic. $

AncoraPizza.com. D daily. Authentic Neapolitan-style pizza fired in an oven imported from Naples. The housemade charcuterie makes it a double-winner. $$

Mahony’s 3454 Magazine St., 899-3374, MahonysPoBoys.com. L, D daily. Along with the usual poor boys, this sandwich shop serves up a grilled shrimp and fried green tomato version dressed with remoulade sauce. Sandwich offerings are augmented by a full bar. $

Pizza Domenica 4933 Magazine St., 301-4978, PizzaDomenica.com. L Fri-Sun, D daily. James Beard Award Winning Chef Alon Shaya’s pizza centric spinoff of his popular Restaurant Domenica brings Neapolitan-style pies to Uptown. Excellent salads and charcuterie boards are offered as well. $$

Clancy’s 6100 Annunciation St., 895-1111, ClancysNewOrleans.com. L Thu-Fri, D MonSat. Their Creole-inspired menu has been a favorite of locals for years. $$$

Mat & Naddie’s 937 Leonidas St., 8619600, MatAndNaddies.com. D Mon-Tue, Thu-Sat. Cozy converted house serves up creative and eclectic regionally inspired fare. Shrimp and crawfish croquettes make for a good appetizer and when the weather is right the romantic patio is the place to sit. $$$$

Commander’s Palace 1403 Washington Ave., 899-8221, CommandersPalace.com.

L Mon-Fri, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. The grande dame is going strong under the auspices

Copeland’s 2333 Manhattan Blvd., 3641575, CopelandsofNewOrleans.com. L, D daily, Br Sun. Al Copeland’s namesake chain

WEST BANK

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Slice 1513 St. Charles Ave., 525-PIES (7437); 5538 Magazine St., 897-4800; SlicePizzeria.com. L, D daily. Order up slices or whole pizza pies done in several styles (thin- and thick-crust) as well as pastas, seafood, panini and salads. $

Seafood Akers

Middendorf’s Interstate 55, Exit 15, 30160

CHEF DEVILLIER’S UNIQUE TAKE ON SOUTHERN

BaliseNola.com, LaPetiteGrocery.com When Justin Devillier joined the uptown restaurant, La Petite Grocery, in 2004 as a line cook, he probably didn’t see himself winning Best Chef South in the James Beard Award just 12 years later. He may not have foreseen that he would also be the owner, with his wife Mia, of “La Petite” and Balise, located in the Central Business District. However, the prodigious talent of this team has created restaurants that excel at cuisine that is at once familiar and surprising in the same bite. – M.C.

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cheryl gerber photograph

Highway 51 South, (985) 386-6666, MiddendorfsRestaurant.com. L, D Wed-Sun. Historic seafood destination along the shores of Lake Maurepas is world-famous for its thin-fried catfish fillets. Open since 1934, it’s more than a restaurant, it’s a Sun. drive tradition. $$

CBD/Warehouse District H Borgne 601 Loyola Ave., 613-3860, BorgneRestaurant.com. L, D daily. Coastal Louisiana seafood with an emphasis on Isleños cuisine (descendants of Canary Islanders who settled in St. Bernard Parish) is the focus of this high-volume destination adjacent to the Superdome. $$$

H Pêche 800 Magazine St., 522-1744, PecheRestaurant.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Award-winning southern-inspired seafood destination by chef Donald Link serves whole roasted Gulf fish from its massive, wood-burning oven. An excellent raw bar is offered as well. $$$ Sac-A-Lait 1051 Annunciation St., 3243658, Sac-A-LaitRestaurant.com. D TueSat, L Fri. Cody and Sam Carroll’s shrine to Gulf Coast and Louisiana culinary heritage melds seafood, game, artisan produce, and craft libations in an ambitious menu that celebrates local and southern cuisine. The striking buildout in the Cotton Mill lofts adds to the appeal. $$$$

French Quarter Bourbon House 144 Bourbon St., 5220111, BourbonHouse.com. B, L, D daily, Br

Sun. Local seafood, featured in both classic and contemporary dishes, is the focus of this New Orleans-centric destination. And yes, bourbon is offered as well. $$$ Crazy Lobster 500 Port of New Orleans Place, Suite 83, 569-3380, TheCrazyLobster.com. L, D daily. Boiled seafood and festive atmosphere come together at this seafood-centric destination overlooking the Mississippi River. Outdoor seating a plus. $$$ Creole Cookery 508 Toulouse St., Suite C110, 524-9632, NewOrleansCreoleCookery.com. L, D daily. Crowd-pleasing destination in the French Quarter offers an expansive menu of Creole favorites and specialty cocktails served with New Orleans flair. $$$ Deanie’s Seafood 841 Iberville St., 5811316, Deanies.com. L, D daily. Louisiana seafood, baked, broiled, boiled and fried is the name of the game. Try the barbecue shrimp or towering seafood platters. $$$

H Dickie Brennan’s Bourbon House 144 Bourbon St., 522-0111, BourbonHouse. com. B, L, D daily, Br Sun. Classic Creole dishes, such as redfish on the halfshell, and an Oyster Bar. Its extensive bourbon menu will please aficionados. $$$$

H GW Fins 808 Bienville St., 581-FINS (3467), GWFins.com. D daily. Owners Gary Wollerman and twice chef of the year Tenney Flynn provide dishes at their seasonal

peak. On a quest for unique variety, menu is printed daily. $$$$$

H Kingfish 337 Charters St., 598-5005, KingfishNewOrleans.com. L, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Regionally inspired seafood dishes with carefully sourced ingredients and southern influence is the focus at this chefdriven French Quarter establishment. $$$ Le Bayou 208 Bourbon St., 525-4755, LeBayouRestaurant.com. L, D daily. Blackened redfish and Shrimp Ya-Ya are a just a few of the choices at this seafood-centric destination on Bourbon Street. Fried alligator is available for the more daring diner. $$$ Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar & Fish House 512 Bienville St., 309-4848, MrEdsRestaurants. com/oyster-bar. L, D daily. A seafood lover’s paradise offering an array of favorites like shrimp Creole, crawfish etouffée, blackened redfish and more. An elaborate raw bar featuring gulf oysters both charbroiled and raw is part of the draw. $$$ Oceana Grill 739 Conti St., 525-6002, OceanaGrill.com. B, L, D daily. Gumbo, poor boys and barbecue shrimp are served at this kid-friendly seafood destination. $$ Pier 424, 424 Bourbon St., 309-1574, Pier424SeafoodMarket.com. L, D daily.

Seafood-centric restaurant offers long menu of traditional New Orleans fare augmented by unusual twists like “CajunBoiled” Lobster prepared crawfish-style in spicy crab boil. $$$

Kenner Mr. Ed’s Seafood and Italian Restaurant 910 W. Esplanade Ave., Suite A, 463-3030, AustinsNo.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Neighborhood restaurant specializes in seafood and Italian offerings such as stuffed eggplant and bell pepper. Fried seafood and sandwiches make it a good stop for lunch. $$

Metairie Deanie’s Seafood 1713 Lake Ave., 8314141, Deanies.com. L, D daily. Louisiana seafood, baked, broiled, boiled and fried, is the name of the game. Try the barbecue shrimp or towering seafood platters. $$$ Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar & Fish House 3117 21st St., 833-6310, MrEdsRestaurants.com/ oyster-bar. L, D Mon-Sat. Seafood-centric eatery specializes in favorites like whole flounder, crabmeat au gratin and more.

An oyster bar offering an array of raw and broiled bivalves adds to the appeal. $$$ Mr. Ed’s Seafood and Italian Restaurant 1001 Live Oak St., 838-0022, AustinsNo. com. L, D Mon-Sat. Neighborhood restaurant specializes in seafood and Italian offerings such as stuffed eggplant and bell pepper. Fried seafood and sandwiches make it a good stop for lunch. $$

Mid-City Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar & Fish House 301.

N. Carrollton Ave., 872-9975, MrEdsRestaurants.com/oyster-bar. L, D daily. Latest outpost of local seafood chain features char-broiled oysters, seafood poor boys

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steak institution, but there are also great seafood choices and top-notch desserts. $$$$$

Uptown

Garden District H Mr. John’s Steakhouse 2111 St.

Frankie & Johnny’s 321 Arabella St., 243-1234, FrankieAndJohnnys.net. L, D daily. Serves fried and boiled seafood along with poor boys and daily lunch specials. Kid-friendly with a game room to boot. $$ Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar & Fish House 1327 St. Charles Ave., 267-0169, MrEdsRestaurants.com/oyster-bar. L, D daily. Outpost of local seafood chain serves Cajun and Creole classics in the Maison St. Charles Hotel. Favorites include Redfish Maison St. Charles, which features blackened redfish topped with crawfish etouffée. $$$

Charles Ave., 679-7697, MrJohnsSteakhouse.com. D Tue-Sat, L Fri-Sat. Wood paneling, white tile and USDA Prime Beef served sizzling in butter are the hallmarks of this classic New Orleans steakhouse. $$$

French Quarter Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse 716 Iberville St., 522-2467, DickieBrennansSteakhouse.com. L Fri, D daily. Nationally recognized steakhouse serves USDA Prime steaks and local seafood. Validated Parking next door. $$$$

West End

H Doris Metropolitan 620 Chartres

Landry’s Seafood 8000 Lakeshore Drive, West End, 283-1010, LandrysSeafood. com. L, D daily. Kid-friendly and popular seafood spot serves of heaping platters of fried shrimp, Gulf oysters, catfish and more. $$

St., 267-3500, DorisMetropolitan.com. L Fri-Sun, D daily. Innovative, genre-busting steakhouse plays with expectations and succeeds with modernist dishes like their Classified Cut and Beetroot Supreme. $$$$

Steakhouse

CBD/Warehouse District H Besh Steak Harrah’s Casino, 8 Canal St., 533-6111, HarrahsNewOrleans. com. D daily. Acclaimed chef John Besh reinterprets the classic steakhouse with his signature contemporary Louisiana flair. $$$$$ Chophouse New Orleans 322 Magazine St., 522-7902, ChophouseNola.com. D daily. In addition to USDA prime grade aged steaks prepared under a broiler that reaches 1,700 degrees, Chophouse offers lobster, redfish and classic steakhouse sides. $$$

H Desi Vega’s Steakhouse 628 St. Charles Ave., 523-7600, DesiVegaSteaks. com. L Mon-Fri, D Tue-Sat. USDA Prime steaks form the base of this Mr. John’s offshoot overlooking Lafayette Square, but Italian specialties and a smattering of locally inspired seafood dishes round out the appeal. $$$

H La Boca 870 Tchoupitoulas St., 5258205, LaBocaSteaks.com. D Mon-Sat. This Argentine steakhouse specializes in cuts of meat along with pastas and wines.

Specials include the provoleta appetizer and the Vacio flank steak. $$$ Morton’s The Steakhouse 365 Canal St., One Canal Place, 566-0221, Mortons. com/NewOrleans. D daily. Private elevator leads to the plush, wood-paneled environs of this local outpost of the famed Chicago steakhouse popular with politicians and celebrities. $$$$ Ruth’s Chris Steak House Harrah’s Hotel, 525 Fulton St., 587-7099, RuthsChris. com. D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Filet mignon, creamed spinach and potatoes au gratin are the most popular dishes at this area

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Galatoire’s 33 Bar & Steak 215 Bourbon St., 335-3932, Galatoires33BarAndSteak. com. L Fri, D Sun-Thu. Steakhouse offshoot of the venerable Creole grande dame offers hand-crafted cocktails to accompany classic steakhouse fare as well as inspired dishes like the Gouté 33: horseradish-crusted bone marrow and deviled eggs with crab ravigote and smoked trout. Reservations accepted. $$$

Metairie Ruth’s Chris Steak House 3633 Veterans Blvd., 888-3600, RuthsChris.com. L Fri, D daily. Filet mignon, creamed spinach and potatoes au gratin are the most popular dishes at this area steak institution, but there are also great seafood choices and top-notch desserts. $$$$$

Mid-City H Crescent City Steaks 1001 N. Broad St., 821-3271, CrescentCitySteaks.com.

L Tue-Fri & Sun, D Tue-Sun. One of the classic New Orleans steakhouses. Steaks, sides and drinks are what you get. $$$$

Uptown Charlie’s Steak House 4510 Dryades St., 895-9323, CharliesSteakHouseNola. com. D Tue-Sat. This quintessential New Orleans neighborhood steak house serves up carnivorous delights including its 32-ounce T-Bone in a relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere. An upstairs dining room accommodates larger parties with ease. $$$

Vegan/Vegetarian

Lower Garden District H The Green Fork 1400 Prytania St., 267-7672, GreenForkNola.com. B, L Mon-Sat. Fresh juices, smoothies and vegetarian-friendly fare make The Green Fork a favorite for lovers of healthy food.

Catering is offered as well. $$

World

Byblos Multiple Locations, ByblosRestaurants.com. L, D daily. Upscale Middle Eastern cuisine featuring traditional seafood, lamb and vegetarian options. $$

Bywater The Green Goddess 307 Exchange Place, 301-3347, GreenGoddessRestaurant. com. L, D Wed-Sun. One of the most imaginative local restaurants. The menu is constantly changing, and chef Paul Artigues always has ample vegetarian options. Combine all of that with a fantastic selection of drinks, wine and beer, and it’s the total (albeit small) package. $$

CBD/Warehouse District Johnny Sanchez 930 Poydras St., 304-6615, JohnnySanchezRestaurant. com. L, D daily. Contemporary Mexican mecca offering celebrity chef cachet to go along with the locally sourced produce accompanying the Bistec a la Parilla.

Popular happy hour and downtown locale next to South Market District add to the appeal. $$$

H Lüke 333 St. Charles Ave., 378-2840, LukeNewOrleans.com. B, L, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Chef John Besh and executive chef Matt Regan serve Germanic specialties and French bistro classics, housemade pâtés and abundant plateaux of cold, fresh seafood. $$$ Palace Café 605 Canal St., 523-1661, PalaceCafe.com. B, L, D daily. A classic New Orleans restaurant, located at the foot of the French Quarter, the Dickie Brennan and Palace Cafe team constantly evolve traditional Creol dishes. Enjoy specialty cocktails and small plates athe Black Duck Bar on the second floor. $$$

Faubourg Marigny H Mona’s Café 504 Frenchmen St., 9494115. L, D daily. Middle Eastern specialties such as baba ganuj, tender-tangy beef or chicken shawarma, falafel and gyros, stuffed into pillowy pita bread or on platters. The lentil soup with crunchy pita chips and desserts, such as sticky sweet baklava, round out the menu. $

Faubourg St. John H 1000 Figs 3141 Ponce De Leon St., 301-0848, 1000Figs.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Vegetarian-friendly offshoot of the Fat Falafel Food Truck offers a healthy farm-to-table alternative to cookie-cutter Middle Eastern places. $$

French Quarter Bayona 430 Dauphine St., 525-4455, Bayona.com. L Wed-Sat, D Mon-Sat. Chef Susan Spicer’s nationally acclaimed cuisine is served in this 200-year-old cottage. Ask for a seat on the romantic patio, weather permitting. $$$$$ El Gato Negro 81 French Market Place, 525-9752, ElGatoNegroNola.com. L, D daily. Central Mexican cuisine along with hand-muddled mojitos and margaritas made with freshly squeezed juice. A

weekend breakfast menu is an additional plus. $$

Kenner H Fiesta Latina 1924 Airline Drive, 4695792, FiestaLatinaRestaurant.com. B, L, D daily. A big-screen TV normally shows a soccer match or MTV Latino at this home for authentic Central American food.

Tacos include a charred carne asada. $$

Lakewood H Mizado 5080 Pontchartrain Blvd., 885-5555, MizadoCocina.com. L daily, D Mon-Sat. Sleek restaurant offers modern Mexican cuisine featuring pan-Latin flavors and influences. Small batch tequila and a ceviche bar make it a party. $$

Lakeview H Mondo 900 Harrison Ave., 224-2633, MondoNewOrleans.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. Chef Susan Spicer’s take on world cuisine. Make sure to call ahead because the place has a deserved reputation for good food and good times. $$$

METAIRIE Vega Tapas Café 2051 Metairie Road, 836-2007, VegaTapasCafe.com. D MonSat, Br Sun. Fun, eclectic small plates destination offers creative fare keeps guests coming back with frequent regionally inspired specialty menus served with humor and whimsy. $$

Mid-City Juan’s Flying Burrito 4724 S. Carrollton Ave., 486-9950, JuansFlyingBurrito. com. L, D daily. Hard-core tacos and massive burritos are served in an edgy atmosphere. $ Lola’s 3312 Esplanade Ave., 488-6946, LolasNewOrleans.com. D daily. Garlicky Spanish dishes and great paella make this artsy boîte a hipster destination. $$$

H Mona’s Café 3901 Banks St., 4827743. L, D daily. Middle Eastern specialties such as baba ganuj, tender-tangy beef or chicken shawarma, falafel and gyros, stuffed into pillowy pita bread or on platters. The lentil soup with crunchy pita chips and desserts, such as sticky sweet baklava, round out the menu. $

H Taqueria Guerrero 208 N. Carrollton Ave., 484-6959. B, L, D, Tue-Sat. Friendly staff and authentic Mexican cuisine make this affordable neighborhood restaurant a neighborhood favorite. BYOB $

Upper 9th Ward Kebab , 2315 Saint Claude Ave., 3834328, KebabNola.com. L, D Wed-Mon. The menu is short and tasty at this kebab outpost along the revitalized St. Claude Avenue corridor. $

Uptown H Café Abyssinia 3511 Magazine St., 894-6238. L, D daily. One of a just few authentic Ethiopian restaurants in the city, excellent injera and spicy vegetarian fare make this a local favorite. $$

H Irish House 1432 St. Charles Ave.,

H Shaya 4213 Magazine St., 891-4213,

595-6755, TheIrishHouseNewOrleans. com. L Mon-Fri, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Irish pub dishes such as shepherd’s pie and fish and chips are featured here, as well as creative cocktails like Irish iced coffee.

Check the schedule of events for live music. $$

ShayaRestaurant.com. L, D daily. James Beard Award-winning chef Alon Shaya pays homage to his native Israel with this contemporary Israeli hotspot. Cauliflower Hummus and Matzo Ball Soup made with slow-cooked duck are dishes to try. $$$

Jamila’s Mediterranean Tunisian Cuisine 7808 Maple St., 866-4366. D TueSun. Intimate and exotic bistro serving Mediterranean and Tunisian cuisine. The Grilled Merguez is a Jazz Fest favorite and vegetarian options are offered. $$ Juan’s Flying Burrito 2018 Magazine St., 569-0000, JuansFlyingBurrito.com. L, D daily. Hard-core tacos and massive burritos are served in an edgy atmosphere. $

H Panchita’s 1434 S. Carrollton Ave., 281-4127. L, D daily. Authentic, budgetfriendly Mexican restaurant serves tamales, mole and offers free chips and salsa as well as sangria. $

H Patois 6078 Laurel St., 895-9441, PatoisNola.com. L Fri, D Wed-Sat, Br Sun. The food is French in technique, with influences from across the Mediterranean as well as the American South, all filtered through the talent of chef Aaron Burgau.

Reservations recommended. $$$

Warehouse District Lucy’s 710 Tchoupitoulas St., 523-8995, LucysRetiredSurfers.com. L, D daily. The focus is on fun at this island-themed oasis with a menu that cherry-picks tempting dishes from across the globe’s tropical latitudes. Popular for lunch, and the afterwork crowds stay well into the wee hours at this late-night hangout. $

Specialty Foods

CBD/Warehouse District Calcasieu 930 Tchoupitoulas St., 5882188, CalcasieuRooms.com. For gatherings both large and small, the catering menus feature modern Louisiana cooking and the Cajun cuisine for which chef Donald Link is justifiably famous.

French Quarter Antoine’s Annex 513 Royal St., 5258045, Antoines.com/Antoines-Annex.

Open daily. Serves French pastries, including individual baked Alaskas, ice cream and gelato, as well as panini, sal-

ads and coffee. Delivery available.

Metairie Sucré 3301 Veterans Blvd., 834-2277, ShopSucre.com. Desserts daily. Open late weekends. Chocolates, pastry and gelato draw rave reviews at this dessert destination. Beautiful packaging makes this a great place to shop for gifts. Catering available.

Sucré 3025 Magazine St., 520-8311, ShopSucre.com. Desserts daily & nightly.

Open late weekends. Chocolates, pastry and gelato draw rave reviews at this dessert destination. Beautiful packaging makes this a great place to shop for gifts.

Catering available. n

Mid-City H Blue Dot Donuts 4301 Canal St., 2184866, BlueDotDonuts.com. B, L Tue-Sun. The Bacon Maple Long John gets all the press, but returning customers are happy with the classics as well as twists like peanut butter and jelly.

Uptown Blue Frog Chocolates 5707 Magazine St., 269-5707, BlueFrogChocolates.com.

Open daily, closed Sundays in summer.

French and Belgian chocolate truffles and Italian candy flowers make this a great place for gifts.

St. James Cheese Company 5004 Prytania St., 899-4737, StJamesCheese. com. Open daily. Specialty shop offers a selection of fine cheeses, wines, beers and related accouterments. Look for wine and cheese specials every Friday.

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contact

If you feel that a restaurant has been misplaced, please email Managing Editor Ashley McLellan at Ashley@ MyNewOrleans.com.

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Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

End of Summer Travel

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ummer’s not over yet—there’s still plenty of time to gather the family, pack a bag and explore the endless possibilities offered by the Gulf South. Beaches await with sugary sands and cool waters, casinos deliver with exciting games and concerts, luxury hotels offer an escape within the city, and history museums turn learning into fun with fascinating looks into the region’s past. Let loose, make memories, and find some fun this month and next. From playing tourist to wining and dining, Louisiana’s options for entertainment abound in our own backyard, while Mississippi offers charm and excitement right on the water of the Gulf. Beaches are the name of the game in both nearby Alabama and Florida, where condos and resorts provide a home away from home, and restaurants and museums offer more fun out of the sun. Imagine the possibilities, and set out for an adventure while the summer still lasts!

Let Loose in Louisiana Architecturally unique, industrially elegant and timelessly refined, the first luxury hotel to open in New Orleans in a generation, NOPSI Hotel, New Orleans welcomes guests with a magnetic elegance and dynamic vibe that reflects the spirit and energy of the city. NOPSI, which stands for New Orleans Public Service Inc., opens this month in the former headquarters of the city’s power and transportation company, a nine-story, distinctive, and historic landmark built in 1927 and newly reimagined.

Located conveniently in the heart of New Orleans’ Central Business District, NOPSI Hotel is within a short walk of the historic French Quarter, The Warehouse and Lower Garden Districts, Lafayette Square, and attractions like the MercedesBenz Superdome. A dramatic Grand Lobby, lively restaurant, and shimmering rooftop pool and bar provide a luxurious atmosphere for guests. myneworleans.com JULY 2017

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Stay two nights this summer and enjoy the third night free!

Visit NOPSIHotel.com or call 844-439-1463 for details and reservations.

At Hyatt Centric French Quarter New Orleans, you’ll become immersed in the true New Orleans spirit the moment you arrive. The French Quarter neighborhood is welcoming and lively with a variety of top sights and the Bourbon Street scene just moments away. Rest up in one of the hotel’s 254 cozy guestrooms, each equipped with 12-foot ceilings, Keurig coffee machines, BeeKind bath products, robes, and Drybar hairdryers.

Dine onsite at Red Fish Grill and Powdered Sugar, both offering local specialties, enjoy the chic ambience of Batch Bar, grab a cocktail poolside, and enjoy the classic Hard Rock Café experience. Work out in the 24-hour fitness center, or get work done in the 24-hour business center.

When looking to relax further, book a massage from the hotel’s menu of in-room spa services. Recharged and ready for adventures, Hyatt Centric French Quarter is centrically located everywhere you want to be in New Orleans to explore and discover.

The Hyatt Centric French Quarter is located at 800 Iberville Street. For more information, visit FrenchQuarter.Hyatt.com.

When living the New Orleans experience, it’s important to envelop yourself in the essence of New Orleans—a feeling captured by each upscale property in the New Orleans Hotel Collection (NOHC). NOHC properties are set apart by distinctive style, personalized service, and superb location.

Locally owned and operated, the collection consists of the new JUNG Hotel and Residences opening in November, the Bourbon Orleans, Dauphine Orleans, Crowne Plaza (Airport), The Whitney Hotel, Hotel Mazarin, and Hotel Le Marais. Hotel Le Marais, Hotel Mazarin, and Bourbon Orleans were named among “New Orleans’ Ten Best Hotels” by readers of Conde Nast Traveler. A consistent guest-favorite, Whitney Hotel is conveniently close to both the World War II Museum and Lafayette Square’s Wednesday summer concert series.

New Orleans Hotel Collection’s “no nickel and dime” approach provides all guests with a free breakfast, a welcome drink, in-room bottled artesian water and coffee, Wi-Fi, newspapers, and access to a business and fitness center.

For a special readers’ discount better than any online travel agency for direct bookings, visit NewOrleansHotelCollection. com/big.

L’Auberge Casino & Hotel Baton Rouge is a unique casino entertainment complex that captures the feel of a Southern river lodge right in the heart of South Baton Rouge. Embracing local culture and cuisine, L’Auberge Baton Rouge offers a genuine Louisiana experience and exudes an atmosphere of fun just a short drive from New Orleans. It features an expansive 74,000-square-foot casino with nearly 1,500 slot machines, 50 table games, a 12-story hotel with over 200 rooms and a rooftop pool, as well as three

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restaurants and a casino bar with breathtaking views of the Mississippi River.

L’Auberge welcomes acclaimed Southern singersongwriter Marc Broussard back to the Event Center on Saturday, August 5. Tickets are $15 and the concert is general admission and standing room only. Jamey Johnson will perform live in concert Saturday, August 12. Tickets start at $35, and the concert is reserved seating. Attendees must be 21 or older to enter the Casino and Event Center.

To find out more about L’Auberge Casino & Hotel Baton Rouge, visit MyLAuberge.com or find them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

Take a walk through time as you enjoy a glimpse into the lives of the fascinating people who have called St. Joseph Plantation “home.”

Learn about the Priestly family and grandson H. H. Richardson, who was born at St. Joseph and became one of America’s most important architects of the 19th century.

Explore the story of Valcour Aime, known as “The Louis XIV of Louisiana,” and his two daughters, Felicite and Josephine, to whom he gave St. Joseph Plantation and neighboring Felicity Plantation. Discover the stories of the slaves that lived here and the work they did.

In 1877, the story of St. Joseph’s Plantation’ current family began when Joseph Waguespack purchased the plantation. Joseph’s descendants, the Waguespack and Simon families, have kept this sugarcane plantation thriving for over 135 years, operating the plantation with over 1,000 acres planted. Visit and learn about the sugarcane industry and its regional significance.

Additionally, see where scenes from All The King’s Men, Skeleton Key, 12 Years a Slave, Underground, Queen Sugar, the remake of Roots, and Mudbound were filmed. Visit StJosephPlantation.com, or call 225-265-4078.

Fun Times in Florida Spend your summer vacation in paradise! Soak up fun in the sun this summer with beautiful beaches, amazing events, endless shopping and so much more at a top-rated resort.

Located in popular South Walton is the iconic Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. This sprawling 2,400-acre resort is rated the #1 Resort in Destin by U.S. News and World Report and is universally recognized as the finest resort on the Emerald Coast. The four-season resort for all ages offers more complimentary amenities than any other resort in Northwest Florida including daily bicycle rentals, tennis court time, fitness center, and boogie boards. Plus, enjoy events all summer long with movie nights, luaus, fireworks, concerts, family fishing tournaments and more.

It’s also easier than ever to visit paradise with direct flights from New Orleans to Northwest Florida. To start planning your summer vacation and save 20%, visit Sandestin.com/nom or call 800-611-3590 (promo code: BEACH).

It’s summer travel season, and there’s no better beach

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escape than Pensacola Beach, Florida, and the properties of Premier Island Management Group. Situated just a few hours outside of New Orleans along the Gulf of Mexico and the Gulf Island National Seashore, this collection of vacation rentals includes beach homes, condos and the acclaimed sky-homes of the Portofino Island Resort.

Northwest Florida’s premier beach vacation experience, Portofino Island offers families the perfect balance of indulgence, natural beauty, and active adventure. Take a kayak or paddleboard adventure and surf the crystal blue waters, or fly under the sun as you parasail your day away. Be sure to reserve a spa day and get pampered in the comfort of your private suite or poolside. Enjoy a morning or sunset cruise and watch curious dolphins jump out of the water to say hello. Whether you want to enjoy the beach with family, children, spouse or friends, guests of all ages will enjoy the properties of Premier Island.

More than just another summer vacation, this will be the one your family remembers for a lifetime. Discover yours at PremierIsland.com or call 866-935-7741.

Four museums, tours, and more! Located downtown, just minutes from Pensacola’s world famous sugar-white beaches and emerald-green waters, Historic Pensacola is nestled within the footprints of the original Spanish and British forts as well as in the heart of today’s waterfront dining, shopping, and entertainment scene.

The 8.5-acre complex shares the stories of Pensacola’s rich heritage through museum exhibits, guided home tours, and engaging, period-dressed living history interpreters.

“One Ticket, Seven Days to Explore” ticketing allows access to all museums, tours, and activities for seven days.

While exploring, step across the street to the Pensacola Museum of Art and experience the diversity of visual culture through exhibitions of modern and contemporary art, tours, and special events that educate and inspire.

Throughout July, view Metaphor as Manifestation, an exhibition of prints by Jasper Johns and Robert Motherwell, and Piece by Piece, art with LEGO Bricks by Sean Kenney.

For hours and ticket information, visit HistoricPensacola.org (850-595-5990) and PensacolaMuseum.org (850-432-6247).

Make Memories in Mississippi Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort, recently named in the 2017 Southern Gaming Reader’s Choice Awards as Best Casino Personnel, Customer Service, and Hotel Rooms, is “The New Way!” to get away on the Mississippi Gulf Coast!

On Saturday July 1st, enjoy a free fireworks show over the Biloxi Back Bay. A Chevy Camaro is also up for grabs that night at 10:30pm. Earn one entry per 50 Base Slot Points.

July 2nd and 3rd brings Mary Wilson of the Supremes, featuring your favorite Motown hits in Strand Event Center.

Australia’s Thunder From Down Under, the #1 male revue in the world, will perform shows on July 21st, 22nd, 28th, and 29th. The interactive show embodies different female

Gulf Shores

fantasies and brings them to life!

With over 1,550 of the best Slot Machines, 38 exciting Table Games, and 10 Live Poker Tables, you are sure to find an old favorite or make a new one this July. Book your next getaway and event tickets at ScarletPearlCasino.com.

Big Bay Lake is a one-of-a-kind planned community on Mississippi's largest private recreational lake. Located just outside of Hattiesburg, Big Bay Lake blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings. Home sites are available on the water starting at $100,000. Both the homes and home sites within this community provide unique opportunities to create the perfect home or weekend getaway.

It’s time to relax, unplug, make memories and create new traditions at Big Bay. Whether you are a boating or fishing enthusiast, or just a family who loves to make a big splash, Big Bay Lake is simply about the lure of the water. Come enjoy sun-kissed, fun-filled days at Big Bay Lake, where the little things make life... “BIG!” Big Bay Lake is only 90 minutes from New Orleans. Call for a boat tour today at 877-4BIG-BAY or visit BigBayLake.com.

Alas, Alabama!

Spend the last few weeks of summer soaking up the sun, splashing in the waves, and playing in the sand on Alabama’s sugar-white sand beaches. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama’s quaint beach towns, offer a large variety of activities and attractions that are ideal for families including parasailing, amusement parks, biking and hiking trails, dolphin cruises, and much more. Families are also able to partake in delicious, one-of-a-kind dining experiences. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are home to a multitude of kidfriendly restaurants, some of which offer allergy-free menus, nightly activities, and play areas.

To learn more about Alabama’s beaches visit GulfShores.com or OrangeBeach.com. And, be sure to request a free copy of the 2017 vacation guide, where you’ll find information about area accommodations, things to see and do, and the best places to eat. • myneworleans.com JULY 2017

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Copeland’s of New Orleans

Summer Specials

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n South Louisiana in the summertime, everyone’s looking for ways to take advantage of the season’s slow pace, longer days and a little time off. New Orleans restaurants and businesses welcome your restlessness and offer a variety of ideas for spending quality time with friends and family. Whether you’re looking for happy hour beverages over oysters on the half-shell, a decadent fine dining experience, or a place to have some fun with the kiddos, summer specials have popped up all around the city and feature everything from the freshest seasonal seafood and vegetables to sizzling steaks, juicy burgers, and mouthwatering pizzas. No matter your appetite, you can’t go wrong when it comes to having good food and fun in this city. Let the following guide help you find your favorite flavors and hangouts for the summer. From the city’s oldest restaurants 104

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and bars to the latest, foodie-crazed concepts, the city is your oyster.

Fresh & Festive: Summer Dining You can find Italian food and pizza in all corners of New Orleans, but when you want something truly authentic, a mediocre national food chain is not the place to go. Respect pizza, pasta, and your palette by visiting Amici Ristorante & Bar. At Amici, Chef Frank Timphony marries the flavors of authentic Sicilian cooking with an unmistakable New Orleans influence.

Located in the Garden District on Magazine Street, Amici Ristorante & Bar was founded by the Rizzuto family in 2013. Their grandmother, Lena, grew up in Caporeale, Sicily,

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and wanted to recreate the food of the family’s heritage for their amici and neighbors. Lena’s sauces, pastas, parmigiana and cannolis have been recreated and perfected by cousin Chef Frank Timphony and amico Chef Jasper Mirable. The intense heat from Amici’s Sicilian, custom-built, 1100°F coalfired oven gives Amici’s pizzas their distinct, charred edges, and chewy, pliable crust. The dough fully crisps in under five minutes, while the sauce stays bright and fresh, and cheese gets that perfect pull. For menus, info, and reservations, visit AmiciNOLA.com.

For over a decade, Austin’s Restaurant has been known as Metairie’s hot spot for steak, seafood, and the Creole-Italian creations of restaurateur Ed McIntyre and his esteemed culinary staff. Garnering awards and accolades from critics and readers alike, Austin’s was named “Favorite Steak House” by readers of New Orleans Magazine, who voted founder Ed McIntyre as a “New Orleanian of the Year” in 2010.

Austin’s impressive menu includes signature appetizers, soups, and salads such as the popular Austin’s Louisiana Creole Crab Salad and Oyster Fitzgerald, as well as the finest aged USDA steaks and savory Creole-Italian entrees of seafood, veal, and duck. Austin’s is located at 5101 W. Esplanade Ave. in Metairie.

For more information or to make reservations, call 504888- 5533. Visit Austin’s online at AustinsNO.com. Private party rooms are available for luncheons, banquets, and rehearsal dinners. McIntyre also oversees Mr. Ed’s Seafood & Italian Restaurant of Metairie and Kenner and Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar & Fish House with locations in Metairie, the French Quarter, St. Charles Avenue, and the newest location in MidCity.

In February 2015, James Beard Award-winning Chef Justin Devillier and wife, Mia Devillier of La Petite Grocery opened their second New Orleans restaurant in a 19th century Creole townhouse located in the Central Business District. Balise, named after the first French settlement at the mouth of the Mississippi River, evokes the bygone era with a recognizable old-world New Orleans feel. The restaurant and menu celebrate New Orleans as a port city and its unique access to a wide variety of ingredients.

Menu favorites include the Baked Rigatoni with beef cheek ragout, shiitake mushrooms and fontina fontal as well as the Chicken liver Mousse & Biscuits with seasonal preserves. In addition to its exceptional lunch, brunch, and dinner menus, Balise offers a world-class beverage program with a curated wine, beer, and cocktail list.

Balise has private dining options available for a variety of event needs. For more information, visit BaliseNOLA.com or call 504-459-4449.

The Bayou Burger & Sports Company, located at 3226 Magazine Street, is the quintessential burger joint but also so much more. Burgers are in the restaurant’s DNA, and, as a burger lover, you won’t be disappointed. Nearly a dozen specialty burgers start the menu and, of course, there’s the option to build your own. The “Starting Lineup” includes

inventive dishes like Edamame Hummus and Tuna Lettuce Cups along with the “Perennial Favorites” like Wings, Cochon Nachos Gator Traps, and a special take on Queso. End your meal with delicious desserts including Milk & Cookies, Praline Creole Cream Cheese Cheesecake or Beignet Fries.

With dozens of draft and bottled beers, a robust wine list, and an extraordinarily fun environment replete with 20+ of televisions keeping you in the action, The Bayou Burger & Sports Company is perfect for lunch, dinner, drinks or just a great place to soak in your favorite sporting event.

For more information, visit BayouBurger.com or call 504224-6024.

This summer, the Warehouse District welcomes a new restaurant at 701 S. Peters Street by acclaimed Chef Robert Vasquez, former Owner and Chef of Mandeville’s Opal Basil. Chef Robert Vasquez brings decades of experience in kitchens all over the world, including lauded concepts in Arizona, Bermuda, Beijing, Singapore, California, and Louisiana. Winner of the 2015 Seafood Competition at the Louisiana Seafood Expo and Silver Medal winner at the 2016 New Orleans Wine and Food Expo, Vasquez has a number of Open Table Diner Awards and appearances on national television networks.

With Briquette, Vasquez puts seafood and coastal cuisine at the center of the dining experience. As the name indicates, the restaurant will feature a large charcoal grill to highlight the fresh coastal flavors. The menu will emphasize small plates for sharing the various types of fish and seafood.

The bar will feature a curated wine list to accompany the menu along with specialty, hand-crafted cocktails. For more information, visit Briquette online at Briquette.com or on Facebook.

Copeland’s of New Orleans started simple in 1983 with fresh-from-scratch and locally inspired dishes, owning a dedicated mission to making Copeland’s an enjoyable and authentic dining experience for those who truly love the special flavors of New Orleans and Louisiana.

Today, you might say Copeland’s is just getting started and hitting its stride with fresh and new menu items such as Oysters, Bacon and Brie, Grilled Chicken Skewers, Shrimp and Mirliton Pasta, and Brie, Strawberry and Almond Salad.

Call it what you will, but after all these years one thing is for certain: “There’s Always Something Good at Copeland’s.”

For more information on Copeland’s of New Orleans, including menus and locations, visit CopelandsofNewOrleans.com.

Dive into a tasty paradise, tucked away in the heart of the Bywater. With a newly renovated space, The Country Club restaurant offers the perfect setting for enjoying thoughtful, chef-driven cuisine inspired by Italian-French and CreoleSouthern heritages. From chateaubriand, hand-rolled pasta, and braised short ribs, to jumbo sea scallops and Louisiana speckled trout, the new menu by Chef Chris Barbato, formerly of Commander’s Palace, has all the foodies talking.

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more than 140 bottles from 13 countries and its very own private label wines. Thirty wines are available by the glass for sipping with a meal or by the pool on a sultry summer afternoon.

To complement the refined menu offerings, the local designers Ferrand Design created a sophisticated and colorful environment with hand-painted murals by Cindy Mathis, artwork by Louis St. Lewis, and custom lighting and furnishings. The Country Club is located at 634 Louisa Street and is open daily from 10:00am-1:00am. For info and updates, visit TheCountryClubNewOrleans.com or follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

New Orleans’ food is legendary. When seeking the best variety of Creole dishes in an authentic atmosphere, locals and first-time travelers alike find themselves at The Court of Two Sisters. Located at historic 613 Rue Royale in the French Quarter, the award-winning restaurant stretches from Royal Street to Bourbon Street and features a gorgeous open courtyard decorated with lush foliage, gas lamp lighting, and a peaceful central fountain.

Brunch isn’t just for Sundays! The Court offers a festive live jazz brunch buffet seven days a week. Indulge in over 60 different items including specialty omelets, eggs Benedict, turtle soup, grits and grillades, iced boiled shrimp, salads, fruits and a variety of desserts. At night, enjoy an elegant four course Table d’Hote dinner or select from an extensive à la carte menu featuring dishes such as Trout Meunière, Veal Oscar and Shrimp and Grits. Call 504-522-7261 or visit CourtofTwoSisters.com for reservations.

The Rizzuto family’s continued resilience over generations has grown their legacy from its early beginnings as a simple Vieux Carré grocery stand, founded by their immigrant ancestors, into their present-day, new restaurant concept, Creole Carré. At Creole Carré, the menu proudly showcases the many flavors and colors of the Rizzutos’ Sicilian roots and Creole influences. In true French Quarter fashion, the restaurant welcomes you to join with the Rizzutos in sharing their love for local culture and cuisine.

From classic Italian entrees like Shrimp Fra Diavolo and Crab & Lobster Ravioli to Creole classics such as Louisiana Seafood Gumbo and Crawfish Etouffee, the dishes at Creole Carré marry the flavors of two continents and generations of exceptional cooking. Steaks, seafood platters, overstuffed po-boys, and raw and charbroiled oysters are additional highlights of the menu, perfect when accompanied by a salad such as the Caprese Burrata, Fried Oyster Spinach, or their specialty, the Southern Deep Fried Chicken.

For more information, call 504-300-1800. Creole Carré is located at 208 Bourbon Street.

Summer is the time to gather with friends over cold drinks and great food, which is why DON’S Seafood is the perfect place for enjoying a laid-back July lunch or dinner. With daily specials like half-off oysters or all-you-can-eat boiled shrimp and a 2-for-1 Happy Hour all day, every day, you can’t beat

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DON’S for fresh seafood and a relaxed atmosphere. Each location boasts a unique Acadiana-inspired décor and offers a full-service bar and open charbroil grill.

Known for its authentic Cajun cuisine and South Louisiana essence, DON’S Seafood serves up an extensive menu of original family recipes, the freshest Gulf seafood, and sizzling steaks. From traditional Louisiana recipes to recent additions like Zydeco Shrimp or DON’S Original Jacked Up Oysters, the menu offers the best of South Louisiana fare accompanied by timeless cocktails and new specialty drinks.

Eat. Drink. Relax. For more information, visit DonsSeafoodOnline.com and locate the DON’S Seafood nearest you in Metairie, Covington, Hammond, Gonzales, Denham Springs, or Lafayette.

Five Happiness, New Orleans’s award-winning Chinese restaurant, offers a delicious menu of Sichuan and Hunan specialties in a sleek and elegant dining room.

Enjoy the succulent shrimp with honey-roasted pecans, General’s Chicken or asparagus sautéed with garlic sauce in a comfortable and unique setting distinguished by its authentic Chinese décor of etched glass and Chinese paintings. The dining room, now split into three rooms, provides a more private dining experience for guests.

Five Happiness is available for private parties, receptions, or other functions for groups of up to 50 people. Serving options are customized for each party, ranging from sitdown dinners to buffets or cocktails with hors d’oeuvres and prices ranging from $20-$45 per person.

For more information, call 504-482-3935 or visit FiveHappiness.com.

Galatoire’s “33” Bar & Steak is a perfect place for a prevacation, post-vacation pick-me-up this summer! Now through August 31, Galatoire’s “33” Bar & Steak will offer a private-label wine flight for $15, three select appetizers for $33, its French Quarter Favorite Sweet Potato Pie served warm with cinnamon ice cream, and $1 premium Vodka or Gin Martinis. In addition, the restaurant will feature a new hand-crafted cocktail each month at the bar. For additional details, visit Galatoires33BarandSteak.com.

Looking to host an event this summer? Galatoire’s private dining spaces provide the perfect atmosphere for a gathering of any size and any occasion. And Galatoire’s balconies have the best views of Bourbon Street, where you and your guests can enjoy Galatoire’s impeccable food and award-winning hospitality. For more information, call 504-335-3933.

Located in the Lower Garden District and just blocks from Downtown New Orleans, Hoshun Restaurant delivers a flavorful punch of pan-Asian flavors with their own take on traditional dishes from China, Japan, Vietnam and other South-Asian countries. Popular menu items include pho soup and Vietnamese spring rolls, pad Thai, sushi, General Tsao’s Chicken, Hunan steak, Kung Pao shrimp and more. Enjoy family-style dining in an elegant atmosphere while sharing your favorite appetizers, entrees, combination

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dinners, and sushi specials. Whether you’re looking for seafood, steak, or vegetarian fare, Hoshun’s extensive menu provides options for everyone.

Open daily until 2:00am, Hoshun is a favorite late-night spot for locals and visitors alike. Its great lunch prices and daily happy hour (3:00pm-6:00pm), make it a popular daytime destination as well. On Tuesdays, S.I.N. night extends happy hour from 10:00pm-2:00am.

For menu and information, visit HoshunRestaurant. com or call 504-302-9716. Located at 1601 St. Charles Ave., Hoshun offers a private party room overlooking the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line fitting between 25-70 people.

Located Uptown on the corner of Magazine and General Pershing Streets, La Petite Grocery features traditional New Orleans cuisine with the creative spin of Chef Justin Devillier, the James Beard Award winner for Best Chef South in 2016. Here, Devillier delights both regulars and visitors with dishes like Turtle Bolognese and Blue Crab Beignets.

Devillier’s from-scratch approach is evident in every dish, from the Shellfish Stew with collard greens and pot likker, to the famous LPG Cheeseburger with house pickles, onion marmalade, arugula, whole grain mustard, aioli, and gruyere with hand-cut fries.

La Petite Grocery’s name pays homage to the storied history of the century-old building that has acted as a coffee and tea depot, grocery store, butcher shop, florist’s studio, and now restaurant. After Hurricane Katrina, Devillier helped build the infrastructure and took over ownership of the restaurant in 2010 with his wife Mia Devillier.

La Petite Grocery is available for private events as well as off-site cocktail or dinner parties. For information and reservations, visit LaPetiteGrocery.com or call 504-891-3377.

Lafitte’s Landing Seafood House, located in Harvey at 1700 Lapalco Boulevard, is bringing Oyster Happy Hour to the Westbank! From 3:00pm to 5:00pm, Monday-Friday, relax with family and friends over dozens of $1.00 chargrilled oysters and $0.50 raw oysters. Wash them down with an icecold draft beer for only $3.00. Still snacking? Enjoy half off of appetizers during happy hour.

Head to Lafitte’s for dinner after a long summer day and indulge in the familiar flavors you always crave: succulent boiled seafood, crisp salads, juicy steaks, and perfectly seasoned Gulf fish. From oysters and soft-shell crab to specialty dishes like Shrimp Pasta Lafitte and Redfish Pontchartrain, not to mention New Orleans classics like Shrimp & Grits, Jambalaya, Crawfish Etouffee, and Shrimp Creole, the menu is full of local flavor and offers something for everyone.

On Wednesdays, kids eat for only $1.99 from 5:008:00pm with the purchase of an adult entrée. For menu and information, visit LafittesLandingSeafoodHouse.com, or like them on Facebook for updates and specials.

Stop in at New Orleans Creole Cookery this summer and

relax from a day of French Quarter shopping or sightseeing with authentic Creole fare and the time-honored tastes of classic favorites such as Gumbo, Shrimp Creole, Crawfish Etouffee, and Snapper Pontchartrain. Enjoy casual fine dining at its very best in your choice of the charming Toulouse Lautrec dining room, romantic courtyard, or lively oyster bar. Celebrate Summer 2017 with a special threecourse Lunch Menu for $20.17 available through August 31.

Present your Passport to the French Quarter coupon (FrenchQuarterPassport.com) and receive a complimentary glass of house wine or Coors Light when you purchase an entrée. Take advantage of Oyster Happy Hour Monday through Friday, 3:00-5:00pm, with $1.00 chargrilled and $0.50 raw oysters along with drink specials.

Located at 510 Toulouse Street, New Orleans Creole Cookery is open seven days a week (11:00am-10:00pm) for lunch and dinner with a jazz brunch on Saturday and Sunday (9:00am-2:00pm). Learn more at NewOrleansCreoleCookery.com. Call 504-524-9632 for reservations.

NOSH (New Orleans Social House) is the newest hot spot in town. Located in the Warehouse District at the corner of Tchoupitoulas and Julia Streets, NOSH combines the fun of a music venue, a menu of exceptional small plates, and, of course, an incredible selection of high-end cocktails, beers and wines. NOSH is the true definition of “a good time had by all.”

Social is the core of the NOSH experience. Chef Michael Farrell has assembled a delectable menu of snacks and small plate delights, a fresh seafood bar, and flatbreads and tartines that are certain to be the center of conversation. Add in cocktails and a carefully selected list of 50 wines offered by the glass or by the bottle and it will keep the discussions going late into the night.

“When you can’t decide between the bison sliders or the Gulf shrimp spring rolls, don’t worry; you can stop back tomorrow for a second round,” says Executive Chef Michael Farrell.

For more information on NOSH, please visit NoshNewOrleans.com or call 504-581-7101 to make reservations.

Hop on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line and head to Pascal’s Manale Restaurant, New Orleans’ crown jewel of Creole-Italian fusion cuisine. Home of the original New Orleans-style barbecue shrimp, this 104-year-old establishment is today operated today by fourth and fifth generations of the original Manale family.

Founded in 1913, Pascal’s Manale serves the classic dishes for which it’s been famous for decades. A fusion of authentic Italian and Creole influence, Pascal’s Manale’s menu includes New Orleans and Italian favorites, steaks, and seafood dishes. Start your night with raw oysters from the oyster bar and follow with specialty favorites including the Combination Pan Roast with oysters, crabmeat, and shrimp chopped in a blend of parsley, green onions, and bell peppers baked in a casserole with a topping of breadcrumbs

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Red Gravy

and butter.

Monday-Friday, 3:00-6:00pm, enjoy half-priced raw oysters at the oyster bar as well half-priced beer, wine and selected cocktails. Pascal’s Manale is located at 1838 Napoleon Ave. Call 504-895-4877 for reservations or visit PascalsManale.com.

Off-street parking is available for your convenience.

Whether you’re taking a break from wandering the French Quarter and Riverwalk or looking for a place to fuel up with drinks and fresh or fried seafood, find your feast this summer along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River at Poppy’s Crazy Lobster. Dine riverside with a fresh Steamed Seafood Bucket: a 2-lb. lobster, snow crab, shrimp, crawfish, clams, mussels, corn on the cob, potatoes, and sausage all seasoned to pure perfection. Looking to satisfy a craving for Creole favorites? New Orleans’ favorites like étouffée, jambalaya, gumbo, and red beans, along with the best fried seafood in New Orleans are also highlights of the menu.

Summer is ideal for indulging in a cold beverage riverside,

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and Poppy’s Crazy Lobster offers drink specials daily from 11:00am-5:00pm. For a refreshing, cool, and fruity tropical cocktail, try the famous Poppy’s Voodoo Juice. Live music keeps the restaurant hopping nightly with a variety of funky musicians straight from Frenchmen Street. Poppy’s Crazy Lobster is open seven days a week, from 11:00am-10:00pm.

For more information and menu, visit TheCrazyLobster.com.

Call 504-569-3380 for reservations.

Summer brings exciting events to Ralph’s on the Park and café b, two neighborhood favorites from the Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group.

From June 1 – August 31, receive three appetizers and a glass of wine for only $33 at Ralph’s on the Park, located next to the grand oaks of City Park. Choose from appetizers such as Miso Tuna 2 Ways, Pork & Beef Potstickers, Crabmeat & Mango Salad, Salsa Verde Braised Goat, Smoked Redfish Onion, Alligator Beignets, and more. Chef Chip Flanagan is excited to revive this time-honored tradition and welcomes guests for

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summer snacking and sipping. For reservations, call 504488-1000.

At café b, summer is about wine! The restaurant currently features your favorites at deep discounts with 35 wines at or under $35. Additionally, Summer Wine Camp takes place July 10, 17, and 24. Each class includes five tasting pours and three small plates for $40. Wine experts teach guests about varietals and regions, fermentation, how to taste, the tongue map, aromas, and more! Cafe b concludes the series with a special Wine Dinner on July 31. Seating is limited, so call 504-934-4700 today for reservations.

Head over to Red Gravy from now through Labor Day and experience Summer in Italy. Every week, Owner Roseann Melisi Rostoker features a different Italy-inspired special at the cozy CBD restaurant named #1 Brunch Spot and #2 Best Italian & Casual Dining by New Orleans Magazine. Examples of the authentic summer specials include Grilled Brioche with Apricot Cream, Panzenella Salad with Boiled Eggs, and Anchovies and Tuscan Bean Bruschetta. Many dishes are sourced locally from Rostoker’s trips to the Crescent City Farmers Market. Guests can expect a variety of fresh and light dishes like cool fruit soups, bruschettas and toasts, and small pies.

While the menu continues to showcase different foods and seasonal trends, you can always count on Red Gravy’s regular brunch menu and signature Italian delicacies: Roseann’s famous meatballs and handmade pasta. View the menu and make reservations online at RedGravyCafe.com, or call 504-561-8844. Visit the website for summer vacation times.

New Orleanians love brunch, and most locals know that no one does brunch better than The Ruby Slipper Café. The Ruby Slipper started in New Orleans’ Mid-City neighborhood as a project of love and homecoming after Hurricane Katrina. The restaurant has grown to eight locations in total with five in New Orleans, two on the Gulf Coast, and one opening in Baton Rouge in late Summer 2017.

All of The Ruby Slipper Cafes are unique to their location.

In fact, the brand categorizes each restaurant based on their specific neighborhood. In New Orleans there is Mid City, Marigny, Canal, French Quarter, and the newest restaurant located Uptown at 2802 Magazine Street. Each location boasts scrumptious breakfast, brunch, and lunch signature dishes including Eggs Cochon, Bananas Foster Pain Perdu, and Gulf Fish St. Peter. They are also known for the eye-opening cocktails, including the Bacon Bloody Mary, which just won first place at the New Orleans’ Bloody Mary Festival.

No matter what neighborhood you are in, The Ruby Slipper Café makes it feel like home. Visit The Ruby Slipper online at TheRubySlipperCafe.net and on Facebook.

Throughout the year, each season offers up a variety of fresh, flavorful ingredients. The sensational new three-

course summer menu at Ruth’s Chris Steak House is inspired by this season’s crisp flavors and freshness. The restaurant’s inventive combination of seasonal ingredients turns your meal into a celebration of summer. Personalize your Ruth’s Chris experience, and enjoy this popular threecourse meal including a starter, entrée, and dessert starting at $44.95.

Premiering July 3, 2017, the summer three-course menu includes your choice of delicious starters like the Red & Golden Beet Frisee Salad or Carrot Ginger Soup. Choices of sides include the Crab Fried Rice and Edamame & Sweet Corn Succotash sautéed with creamy garlic butter. Entrée selections include classic steaks and seafood options such as the 6oz. Filet with a traditional horseradish crust or the Korean BBQ King Salmon marinated in a gochujiang sauce, baked, and finished with honey ginger sauce over a bed of sautéed vegetables. An Apple Gallete with vanilla ice cream and caramel crème anglaise finishes the menu on a deliciously sweet note.

View the menu online and make reservations at RuthsChris.com or call 504-587-7099.

As the newest member of the Riccobono family of restaurants, Sala is a contemporary seafood restaurant and cocktail bar bringing an upscale dining experience to beautiful Lake Pontchartrain in New Orleans’ West End neighborhood. Great for drinks and small plates with friends after work, a celebratory dinner with family, or a leisurefilled weekend brunch, Sala delivers with delicious food, a diverse menu, superb wines and cocktails, and a chic atmosphere.

Located at 124 Lake Marina Avenue, directly across from the Marina, Sala joins Café Navarre, Riccobono’s Peppermill, and Panola Street Café as part of the Riccobono restaurant family. Happy hour is offered weekdays from 4:00 to 7:00pm, late night hours run until midnight Thursday through Saturday, and weekends feature brunch with bottomless mimosas starting at 8:00am.

The restaurant is closed on Mondays.

For more information, menus, and reservations, visit SalaNola.com or call 504-513-2670.

This summer, stop by any of the Tropical Isles, home of the Hand Grenade®, New Orleans’ Most Powerful Drink® and the Hand Grenade® Martini. Also, enjoy a Hand Grenade® at Funky Pirate Blues Club or Bayou Club.

Experience Trop Rock, Cajun/Zydeco and the Blues with Tropical Isle’s nightly entertainment, the best on Bourbon.

State-of-the-art sound systems plus great live bands will keep you dancing the night away at Tropical Isle Bourbon, Tropical Isle Original, Little Tropical Isle, Funky Pirate, and the Bayou Club. While there, ask about the Hand Grenade® Martini! Enjoy big screen TVs at Funky Pirate, Bayou Club, Tropical Isle Bourbon, and Top of the Trop. For more on Tropical Isle, visit TropicalIsle.com.

For a quiet escape, visit local favorite The Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro right off of Bourbon at

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720 Orleans Ave., which has more than 200 varieties of wine by the bottle and plenty of wine by the glass, plus a Bacon Happy Hour! For sample menus and wine lists, visit OrleansGrapevine.com.

Resources for Bars & Restaurants Barmetrix is a hospitality services and coaching business that has coached over 5,000 bar and restaurant operations teams in the US, Canada, UK, and Australia since 1999.

Barmetrix owes its success to a formula that helps bars and restaurants meet their potential, resulting in a better quality of life for owners, managers, and staff. Most bars and restaurants with quality systems in place still manage to see bar inventory losses ranging from 15-20% on a weekly basis.

This variance amounts to tens of thousands of dollars in lost profits annually. But with coaching and consulting by Barmetrix account teams, combined with their out-sourced inventory process, these operations can be reduced to less than 5%.

The most common feedback heard from Barmetrix clients is that they wished they had signed up sooner. If you’re a bar or restaurant owner, please contact Danny Breaux at Barmetrix to start your risk-free trial today at 337-781-5107.

Shop for the Season While Trashy Diva is a distinctly New Orleans clothing company with five locations spread across the city, their vintage-inspired designs are known and coveted worldwide.

With two boutiques newly opened in Atlanta, designer Candice Gwinn is poised to take the Deep South by storm.

Summer in the South means sundresses, sandals, and swimwear! From the quirky yet elegant Birds of a Feather print to the bright, bold color palette of the 50s-inspired Wildflowers collection, Trashy Diva offers an assortment of print and solid-color dresses, skirts, and tops to flatter your shape. Pair your choice with the perfect airy summer footwear from their Uptown shoe boutique or French Quarter dress boutique, including brands like Remix, Miss L Fire, and Jeffrey Campbell.

Visit their French Quarter dress boutique or either lingerie boutique to shop the expansive swimwear selection, including modest retro suits from Esther Williams as well as bra-sized options from Huit and Freya. For poolside lounging, their range of easy-fit bralettes and camisoles from brands like Only Hearts and Free People offer effortless style and comfort. For more information, visit TrashyDiva.com, call 504-299-3939, and follow @TrashyDiva on Instagram.

The ability to translate the ideas and wishes of clients into precious metal art is one of the many reasons people have been visiting Symmetry Jewelers and Designers for over 40 years. With immense talent, the staff of Symmetry can bring to life, step by step, treasures that had not before existed.

Engagement and wedding rings can be the most personal

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and important jewelry ever purchased by couples, and the Symmetry team works patiently with each couple to achieve the perfect statement. Designer Tom Mathis especially loves it when given the task of creating such pieces.

Symmetry’s technology allows clients to see a virtual image of the rings and a 3-D printed model for approval before the ring is crafted in precious metals. Tom Mathis is also a master hand engraver, and with the expert help of other experienced jewelers at their in-house workshop, the final product is always exquisite.

Symmetry Jewelers and Designers is located in the Riverbend at 8138 Hampson Street in New Orleans. Visit SymmetryJewelers.com.

Summer Events & Activities Since 1852, Fair Grounds Race Course has been a part of the cultural fabric of the wonderful city of New Orleans.

With extensive experience, southern hospitality, and unique facilities, the Fair Grounds is able to make your occasion truly memorable. Whether it’s a group for “A Day at the Races,” a meeting or an evening party, Fair Grounds provides an ideal setting for your next event. A major strength is its flexibility; event settings range from elegant to casual and reception-style to sit-down with your choice of view of the racetrack or downtown New Orleans. With grounds fit for even the most special of occasions, Fair Grounds would consider it a privilege to share in any big day. Host your ceremony or reception in the Paddock and be among the many greats in history that have paraded around this historic site.

For groups of 25 or more, request the Fair Grounds Race Course brochure and “Win, Place and Show” your guests an afternoon to remember. Call 504-948-1285 or email groupsales@fgno.com. Visit online at FGNO.com.

The Louisiana Children’s Museum at 420 Julia Street is the cool place to play this summer! Behind the Big Blue Doors, families explore and experience the Museum’s signature exhibits and engaging educational programs including daily art encounters, hands-on science, story time, fitness, and more.

Enjoy all things red, white, and blue with stories, crafts games and more as the Louisiana Children’s Museum celebrates with a “U.S. of Play” patriotic party on July 1st.

Celebrate Nouvelle Orleans on Saturday, July 15, and discover how France shaped this amazing city. From alligators and snakes to raccoons—Wildlife Week offers an opportunity to learn about Louisiana wildlife July 17 - 23.

The Louisiana Children’s Museum is open daily during the summer months, Monday through Saturday, from 9:30am4:30pm, and Sunday from noon until 5:00pm. Admission is $8.50 per person (children 12 months and older and adults).

LCM members are admitted free. Visit LCM.org for hours and information about programs, birthday parties, membership and more. •

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Fitness & Aesthetics

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outhern summers mean swimsuits, strappy tops and breezy sundresses. Most of us want to wear our summer clothes with confidence. Are you ready to show off your beach body? How are you planning to maintain the physique you’ve earned through the end of summer?

Fortunately, there are tons of resources across New Orleans for looking and feeling great, including muscle-toning exercise routines and weight loss challenges to keep you motivated.

Give your appearance and your confidence a boost, and make the most of the warm summer weather and sun-filled vacations. Look great, feel great and remember to wear sunscreen!

Nola Pilates & Xtend Barre is one of Lakeview’s premier Pilates and barre studio. The studio’s extensive class schedule features over 65 group classes per week, including Pilates Reformer, Tower, Mat, yoga, TRX, spin and Xtend Barre. If you prefer a private setting, one-on-one sessions are available in the private equipment studio seven days per week.

Classes range in focus and intensity from open-level Pilates Mat and yoga classes to muscle sculpting, calorie torching classes like Xtend Barre and spin.

Whether you’re looking for a gentle transition back to

exercise or a way to kick up your workout regimen, visit the studio online at NolaPilates.com to schedule your first session.

“We are eternally grateful for the opportunity to help you meet your goals, and restore your mind, body and spirit,” says owner Kim Munoz. For more information, visit NolaPilates.com or call 504-483-8880.

Workouts that will make you burn fat for up to 36 hours afterwards? That is the incredible power of the sweat-inducing workouts found at OrangeTheory Fitness. The after-burn effect is a fitness revolution helping members get the most out of a workout and see amazing results in just a few weeks.

Stay motivated and bring a friend to the most fun you’ll have while working out. Join OrangeTheory at its Uptown location for this month’s weight loss challenge. The 30-day challenge involves goal setting and personal coaching from an OrangeTheory trainer. Every class is an hour long, and includes a balanced combination of cardio and strength training, all in high intensity intervals, while a trainer pumps the music and keeps you sweating.

Check out OrangeTheory’s two New Orleans locations, Uptown on Tchoupitoulas and one in Mid City on Bienville. Try your first class free by signing up at OrangeTheoryFitness.com. •

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Saturday.

For more information, call 504-865-1960 or explore Lambeth House online at LambethHouse.com.

Aging Parents Living & Wellness Resources for Families

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taying active and healthy is key for living well, no matter your age. And while age can certainly take a toll on health and activity, it doesn’t mean one should slow down or ignore options for improved wellness. New Orleans is full of resources for living well, from retirement living options that offer innovative programs and extraordinary amenities to healthcare providers and health-centered businesses that understand the needs of the aging in the community and their families. While some may seek a retirement community emphasizing memory care, others may be looking for a social atmosphere that fosters engagement and fun. While some seek medical equipment to help with mobility, others may only require more comfortable shoes.

The needs of aging adults can vary widely, but fortunately for New Orleans families, finding a solution is just around the corner.

Retirement Living With spectacular views of the Mississippi River and Audubon Park, Lambeth House is New Orleans’ leading retirement community offering elegant living and amenities that focus on choice and flexibility. Active living is at the forefront at Lambeth House, where residents enjoy a robust events calendar, a variety of common spaces, and a Wellness Center that features a stunning indoor pool, fitness center, art studio, meditation room, and all one needs to maintain and ensure physical and spiritual wellness.

Located Uptown where Broadway meets River Road, Lambeth House offers luxury retirement living at its best and was awarded the Design for Aging Merit Award by the American Institute of Architecture for the attention to detail in its recent expansion. Fitness Center memberships are available to nonresidents age 55 and older, and Lambeth House’s Wild Azalea Café is open to the public for breakfast and lunch, Tuesday112

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Celebrating its Bicentennial Birthday this year, Poydras Home is a Life Plan Community offering independent living, assisted living, and nursing care within its Uptown New Orleans campus. Poydras Home is known nationally for its quality of care and innovative programs that allow residents to enjoy life to the fullest. Poydras Home is the only Life Plan community in Greater New Orleans offering secure memory support care areas in both assisted living and nursing care as well as an adult day program.

Poydras Home has recently partnered with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra to launch a music therapy program, designed to benefit people with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Soul Strings For Seniors: Musical Memories, the first program of its kind in our area, debuted to an enthusiastic group of Poydras participants, thanks to a generous donation by Whitney Bank.

“Together the musicians and music therapist improve communication, memory, and attention in our residents, impacting wellness as they reach those who can find traditional modes of communication difficult,” says Erin Kolb, Interim CEO and Vice President of Resident Affairs. For more information, visit PoydrasHome.com or call 504- 897-0535.

Schonberg Care is proud to provide seniors in the Greater New Orleans area with every opportunity to live a life worth celebrating at their award-winning assisted living and memory care communities.

At Schonberg communities, you’re not just a resident, you’re part of the family, and your loved ones are, too. Schonberg understands the importance of being close to the ones you care about most, which is why they offer several conveniently located communities throughout the Greater New Orleans area, including Vista Shores in New Orleans, Beau Provence in Mandeville, Park Provence in Slidell, and Ashton Manor in Luling.

If you or a loved one are seeking an exciting, engaging, and luxurious assisted living experience coupled with the highest quality of specialized care, Schonberg communities are here to provide a lifestyle custom-made for you. To learn more about living your best life at a Schonberg community near you, visit SchonbergCare.com.

Health Resources As the state’s oldest and largest health insurer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana is committed to improving the health and lives of Louisianians.

The company and its subsidiaries offer a full line of health insurance plans for people of every age—from birth through retirement, including supplemental coverage such as dental and senior plans, at affordable rates. The Blue Cross provider networks offer the peace of mind that comes with being covered by the Cross and Shield.

Blue Cross is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association and headquartered in Baton Rouge. To better serve customers, Blue Cross operates regional offices in Alexandria, Houma, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Monroe, New Orleans, and Shreveport.

Louisiana-owned and operated, Blue Cross is a private, fully taxed mutual company owned by policyholders—not shareholders. To learn more, call a Blue Cross agent or visit BCBSLA.com.

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Anyone looking for compassionate and dignified care for their terminally ill loved ones should take a look at the services offered

by Canon Hospice. The caring team at Canon is dedicated to a hospice ministry that helps patients and families accept terminal illness positively and resourcefully. Their stated goal is to “allow our patients to live each day to the fullest and enjoy their time with family and friends.”

With special expertise in pain management and symptom control, Canon Hospice designs individualized plans of care for each patient based on their unique needs. Home Based Services provide doctors, nurses, social workers, pastoral care and volunteers. For patients with more intensive symptom management needs, Canon has an Inpatient Hospice Unit. This unit provides 24-hour care in a home-like environment where patients are permitted to receive visits at any hour.

For more information, visit CanonHospice.com or call 504-8182723.

Generations of families have turned to Patio Drugs for assistance in managing their healthcare needs. Family owned and operated since 1958, Patio Drugs helps customers understand their medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, and provides free prescription delivery throughout East Jefferson. A full-service pharmacy and the oldest independent pharmacy in Jefferson Parish, Patio Drugs is also a leading provider of home medical equipment. For everything from a Band-Aid, to medication, to a hospital bed, Patio Drugs is the one-stop source for your family’s healthcare needs. In addition to providing retail and medical equipment, Patio Drugs can assist with long- term care and infusion needs as well as specialty and compounding services.

Patio Drugs is accredited by The Joint Commission in Home Medical Equipment, Long Term Care and Home Infusion Pharmacy and Consultant Pharmacy Services. Their Compounding Pharmacy is PCAB accredited through ACHC. Patio Drugs is located at 5208 Veterans Blvd. in Metairie. For more information, call 504-889- 7070. Patio Drugs, “Large Enough to Serve You, Yet, Small Enough to Know You.” Dale Gedert has focused on foot care for more than 45 years.

He brings his expertise to Greater New Orleans with Therapeutic Shoes, a shopping resource for those suffering from a wide variety of conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, flat feet, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, bunions, calluses, edema and leg length discrepancies, as well as knee, hip, and back pain, and more.

“We specialize in custom accommodative foot orthotics, stylish extra depth shoes, diabetic shoes, custom shoes, shoe modifications, compression wear, and diabetic socks,” says Gedert. “We’ve got over 500 styles and colors of men’s and women’s shoes.”

Therapeutic Shoes features an in-house orthotic lab with certified personnel who handle all custom orthotics and shoe modifications. They offer a large selection of compression wear as well as socks shaped to fit the foot for reducing fatigue and preventing circulation problems. They offer UV Total Recovery Shoe Sanitizer for those who’ve been treated for toenail fungus by a podiatrist or medical professional to prevent reinfection.

Therapeutic Shoes is located at 5017 River Road in Harahan, Louisiana. For more information and hours, call 504-731-0013. •

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Women's Health

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hat is considered healthy for one gender could be potentially harmful to another.

Women’s bodies are distinctly different from men’s, and vice versa. Physical makeup, body chemical levels, reproductive functions and more can make a doctor approach men and women differently. From plastic surgery to dentistry and weight

loss, women’s bodies have their own shapes, sizes and aesthetic goals, as well as their own health risks. If you’re a woman in New Orleans looking for a primary care physician or a specialist in a particular field, this section contains resources and a number of physicians familiar with your unique needs. Find a path forward for your health according to your gender’s unique needs today.

Lakefront Dental Care

Stephen J. Delahoussaye, DDS Sarah Haydel, DDS

A native of Lakeview in New Orleans, Dr. Delahoussaye was awarded his Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) by the LSU School of Dentistry in 2008.

Since graduation, he has completed many hours of continuing education and advanced training in Implant Dentistry.

Dr. Sarah Haydel was born and raised in Monroe, Louisiana. She is a proud graduate of LSU and LSU School of Dentistry. Since graduation, she has completed many hours of continuing education and advanced training in therapeutic Botox treatment for TMD. Both doctors are members of the American Dental Association, Louisiana Dental Association, and New Orleans Dental Association, amongst other dental organizations.

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Dr. Joseph J. Collura has worked at the forefront of cosmetic dentistry for more than 30 years, providing high-quality care and attractive, bright smiles to patients throughout the New Orleans region. He has extensive experience in cosmetic dentistry, advanced restorative dentistry, single-tooth, as well as complete mouth implant reconstruction, root canal therapy, non-surgical gum care and the prevention and treatment of bite-related problems. Dr. Collura is passionate about advancing his skills and education and has been honored with a guest faculty position with the prestigious Scottsdale Center for Dentistry, which provides the latest in programs, seminars and hands-on training. Additionally, the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry for conscious sedation and nitrous oxide analgesia licensed Dr. Collura.

When you visit Dr. Joseph Collura, you’ll realize you’re in a caring, calm environment designed for patient comfort with an open, relaxed atmosphere facing Lake Pontchartrain. During your one-on-one discussion following an exam by Dr. Collura, he’ll answer questions and give you the information you need to make confident choices about your oral health care. For more details or to make an appointment, visit DrCollura.com or call 504-837-9800.

At East Jefferson General Hospital, we understand that women make the healthcare decisions for not only themselves, but for their entire family as well. That’s one reason we try to make it so easy for women to care for themselves. With

convenient OB/GYN access here on our main campus and our Lakeview location and a newly expanded mammography center, we know how important it is that you receive the very best of care CONVENIENTLY. Our new Urgent Care on West Esplanade Avenue in Kenner was opened with the goal of making it easier than ever for women and their families to receive the care that CareChex ranked #1 in Louisiana and #19 in America. We are East Jefferson General Hospital, proudly providing the women in our community the care they need and the convenience they want. Find out more about EJGH offerings at EJGH.org.

At Lakefront Dental Care, your smile is our top priority. Dr. Stephen Delahoussaye, Dr. Sarah Haydel, and their team are dedicated to providing you with the personalized, gentle care that you deserve. Good oral health is essential to overall health.

Gum disease has been linked to several major health issues, including heart disease. Specifically for women, oral health needs change as hormone levels change. Cleanings are also most important during pregnancy, because gum disease has been linked to preterm birth and low birth weight babies.

Lakefront Dental Care is focused not only on your oral health, but also on enhancing the natural beauty of your smile.

We are proud to use conservative, state-of-the-art dental procedures that will result in beautiful, long-lasting smiles.

To find out more about the services we offer, please visit our website at MyLakeviewDentist.com, or call at 504-282-5557 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Hugo St. Hilaire, MD, DDS, FACS is LSU Chief of Plastic Surgery and specializes in Craniofacial and Microsurgery Breast reconstruction, and also holds the distinction of both a medical doctorate (MD) and a doctorate in dental surgery (DDS).

Dr. Kelly Babineaux, MD, FACS is certified by The American Board of Surgery in General Surgery and Surgery of the Hand. Dr. Frank Lau, MD, FACS specializes in wound care and tissue engineering.

Dr. Oren Tessler, MD, MBA, FACS, specializes in reconstructive breast surgery, migraine surgery, and cosmetic surgery. Amanda Gregoire is the team’s Nurse Practitioner.

Dr. Charles Dupin, MD, FACS, Program Director of the Division of Plastic Surgery with primary interest in reconstructive surgery of face, head and neck and breast. Dr. Hamid Massiha, MDD, develops a number of innovative techniques in facelift, rhinoplasty and blepharoplasty. Dr. Gerhard S. Mundinger, MD focuses on solving complex craniofacial problems in adults and children.

LSU Plastic Surgery Hugo St. Hilaire, MD, DDS, FACS Oren Tessler, MD, MBA, FACS · Kelly Babineaux, MD, FACS Amanda Gregoire, NP-C · Frank Lau, MD, FACS

3700 St. Charles Ave. 3rd Floor New Orleans 504-412-1240 LSUPlasticSurgery.com myneworleans.com JULY 2017

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ADVERTISING SECTION Sensible Portions

Based in the New Orleans area, Sensible Portions is the largest meal prep program in the country. Women across the U.S. are signing up for this simple and effective path towards fast weight-loss results, all by consuming flavorful, chefprepared, fresh foods. Sensible Portions boast of the numerous health benefits including blood sugar regulation and overall heart health. This diet plan is changing lives.

John J. Killeen, DDS

“After five days on the meal plan, the appetite shrinks, and when you eat restaurant — or home-prepared food, the desire for smaller portions remains,” explains Ingrid Ridick, Owner and Founder of Sensible Portions Meals.

Sensible Portions Meals ships nationally to thousands of clients with free local pickup in 10 cities. For videos, client testimonials – including exciting local “before and after” photos and success stories - visit Sensible Portions Meals’ Facebook, Instagram or twitter pages or head over to SensiblePortions.com.

Doctor Kristie Reine is celebrating 10 years with Lakeshore Family Dentistry, and was named among the Top Dentists of 2017 in New Orleans Magazine. She attended LSU School of Dentistry where she was named to the Dean’s List, National Collegiate Scholar, and Who’s Who Among Dental Students. She is an active member of the American Dental Association, Louisiana Dental Association, and Lake Pontchartrain Study Club.

Offering a range of services using only the most advanced equipment and technology, Dr. Reine welcomes patients of all ages.

Want a brighter, whiter smile? Dr. Reine is eager to help perfect your smile, answer all of your questions, and ultimately help build your confidence while promoting comfort and care during all procedures. There are also various payment options to ensure a beautiful, healthy

Bridget Brahney, DDS

John J. Killeen, DDS Cosmetic and Family Dentistry

Dr. Bridget Brahney Family Dentistry

Dr. Killeen has been practicing in the Slidell/ Metropolitan New Orleans area since graduating from LSU School of Dentistry. His mission of providing the best care possible while embracing his patients as extended family has created a warm and welcoming dental experience. Understanding and listening to the patient’s concerns and desires for a more beautiful or functional smile through individualized treatment planning has been a hallmark of his practice. He invites new patients to become part of his dental family.

Dr. Bridget Brahney is a New Orleans native and proud graduate of top-ranked NYU College of Dentistry and Loyola University New Orleans. A member of several professional and prestigious organizations, Dr. Brahney passionately pursues continued education. She and her staff are committed to providing high quality care in a relaxed environment.

110 Village St., Slidell 985-643-7516 SlidellSmiles.com

3508 Veterans Blvd., Metairie 504-888-6860 SmileNewOrleans.com

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smile is within reach for everyone.

Take the first step towards a more beautiful smile and call Lakeshore Family Dentistry to make an appointment with Doctors Kristie Reine or Edmund Ring. Located at 435 Robert Boulevard in Slidell call 985-643-1852, and visit LakeshoreFamilyDentistry.com.

The LSU Plastic Surgery team is comprised of expert medical practitioners with various specializations. Breasts can affect a wide-range of women in various ways, from being too large and heavy, causing back and posture problems, to a feeling of insecurity due to underdevelopment, to deformity following breastfeeding or cancer treatments, including a mastectomy. Regardless of what issues you may be encountering with your chest shape and size, LSU Plastic Surgery is a trusted treatment center offering breast reconstruction, augmentation, lifts, and fat-transfer augmentation.

LSU Plastic Surgeon Hugo St-Hilaire, MD, DDS, FACS, specializes in numerous medical practices, including breast reconstruction. When it the time comes for you to decide when to have the surgery, Dr. Hilarie will help you understand which surgical method is best for you. The reconstruction procedure varies from patient to patient. Typically, women return to normal activities within six weeks after reconstructive surgery, and to strenuous exercise after several weeks. Visit LSUplasticsurgery.com to learn more.

Just because you age, doesn’t mean that your smile needs to fade. Feel better about your teeth in just few hours with the various treatment options available at John J. Killeen, D.D.S. Cosmetic and Family Dentistry.

Zoom in-office whitening will lighten your teeth by an average of eight shades and takes just 45 minutes. Save time and see the difference when you come in for just one session.

If your teeth are worn, stained or discolored, get a power lift for your smile with veneers. Veneers are a thin, porcelain shell that covers the front surface of your teeth, to lengthen, lighten and broaden your smile. The result is a conservative, longlasting and very natural smile.

Shifting and crowded teeth cause problems like chipping, recession and bone loss. With clear aligners, you can straighten and perfect your smile in as little as a few months.

Feel beautiful again and transform your smile. For a personal consultation with Dr. Killeen, call 985-643-7516.

The specialized healthcare team of Tulane Center for Women’s Health meets the unique healthcare needs of women by providing comprehensive care for the challenges faced in every phase of a woman’s life. Specializing in the areas of general obstetrics and gynecology, maternal fetal medicine, reproductive endocrinology and fertility, minimally invasive surgery, female pelvic and reconstructive surgery and gynecologic oncology, the center operates on the belief

Located in Slidell, Doctor Kristie Reine is celebrating Lakeshore Family Dentistry serving the Northshore for 10 years. A top-achieving graduate from LSU School of Dentistry, Dr. Reine embraces a unique style of patient care. At Lakeshore Family Dentistry, visitors receive one-on-one consultations and appointments that guarantee patients a pleasant experience paired with beautiful smiles.

Procedures are never done without all questions being asked and answered.

Dr. Reine offers cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening and veneers, dentures, crowns, root canals, implant restorations and more. Take the first step towards a brighter and more beautiful smile and call Lakeshore Family Dentistry to make an appointment with Dr. Reine.

Lakeshore Family Dentistry Kristie Reine, DDS Edmund Ring, DDS

435 Robert Blvd., Slidell 985-643-1852 LakeshoreFamilyDentistry.com myneworleans.com JULY 2017

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that every woman not only has the right to good obstetric and gynecologic care, but that she is a partner in her care.

Continued evaluation and implementation of Obstetrics & Gynecologic best practices promotes the delivery of safe and quality patient care for women throughout the region.

With over 100 years of involvement in patient care, research and resident education, you can “Trust Our Experience.”

Call 504-988-8070 today to meet your healthcare needs by scheduling an appointment at the Uptown, Downtown, or Metairie offices. Visit TulaneOBGYN.com for more information.

All that is good begins with a smile. At Dr. Bridget Brahney Family Dentistry, your smile is a top priority. Dr. Brahney and her team are dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain long-term dental health and a beautiful smile, whether it be through routine cleanings and checkups, or through finding a solution to a more complex dental concern.

When you visit Dr. Bridget Brahney Family Dentistry, you will experience all that modern dentistry has to offer, including the latest advancements that reduce discomfort and expedite care. Dr. Brahney offers a comprehensive list of general, restorative, and cosmetic dental services to meet the needs of the whole family, from Velscope oral cancer screening to fillings, crowns and tooth whitening.

Joseph Collura, DDS General Dentistry

Dr. Collura earned his degree from LSU School of Dentistry after earning his pharmacy degree. He has also taken numerous postgraduate courses in cosmetics, restorative, and implant dentistry. He has extensive training in minimally invasive dentistry, as opposed to traditional crowns and veneers. Our focus is patient comfort. We offer conscious sedation and nitrous oxide. Smile gallery on drcollura.com.

3939 N. Causeway Blvd.

Suite 104, Metairie 504-837-9800 DrCollura.com 118

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Not only are Dr. Brahney and her team focused on the beauty of your smile, but they’re also concerned about your health, and to that end, they focus on thorough exams and routine cleanings. For more information about Dr. Bridget Brahney and her practice, or to schedule an appointment, visit SmileNewOrleans.com or call 504-888-6860.

The professionals at DiscreetNAD.com, are providing real solutions for people suffering from a wide range of health problems and addictions. Now you can begin to restore your life in just 10 days with a natural coenzyme IV Drip.

Do you suffer from anti-aging, low energy, depression, brain fog, stroke, immune system deficiencies, chronic fatigue, Parkinson's, cancer chemo brain, high glucose sugar, high stress, fear, anxiety, PTSD, alcoholism, or any drug addiction?

DiscreetNAD.com professionals are all about restoring normal lives to a healthier condition and breaking the chains of addiction. Make the decision today to stop the aftermath of your addictions upon the lives of those you love.

Discreet treatments are available in Mandeville, Metairie, Slidell, and Baton Rouge. If you prefer, you can be treated in the privacy of your home.

Start today by visiting DiscreetNAD.com and receive a free PDF about NAD treatment and to set up a private appointment today.•

Chairmen Celeste and Curtis Eustis Lauren and Bryan Fitzpatrick

Pre-View Party Wed, October 11 6-8pm View 25 Extravagant Tablescapes Created

by Local Designers, Enjoy Culinary Delights, & Cocktails, Music & Live Auction

Presented by

Luncheon Thurs, October 12 11:30am – 1:30pm Enjoy a 3-Course Lunch with Wine Seated at one of the Elaborately Decorated Tables

– Seating is very limited!

Info & Tickets at

WineDineNDesign.com

Sponsored by:

Aucoin Hart Jewelers; Patricia and Vernon Brinson; Celeste and Curtis Eustis; Lauren and Bryan Fitzpatrick; Michele and Lamar Villere; Liz and Peyton Bush

100%

of all ticket sales and proceeds will benefit Bastion a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is an intentionally designed neighborhood in New Orleans for returning warriors with lifelong rehabilitative needs and their families. The community is designed to foster informal neighboring and enduring relationships.

try this

Take Me To Church A spiritual yoga experience

By Kelly Massicot

The sound of the gong hummed in the background. I lay on my mat, breathing in and out after completing my first class at The Church of Yoga. I’ve always loved the idea of yoga, but I never thought it was something I was cool enough to participate in. Every time I’ve entered a yoga class, it was always filled with people who look one hundred times cooler than I am. I’m always intimidated by their expert level of style and ability to never fall over, which I feel like I constantly do during my yoga experiences. The Church of Yoga, opened earlier this year in the 7th ward, made me feel none of this during my first class.

The good vibes begin before even stepping foot in the building. The brightly painted fuchsia wall, adorned with paintings of Martin Luther King Jr. and Frida Kahlo, among others, immediately greets anyone who just drives down the street. The color and energy continues with each class. Held in the main room, classes are centered by the studio’s logo in neon lights, hung over the space’s original baptismal fountain from when, for decades,

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it was a Baptist church. Now, another type of worship, to the mind, body and soul, resides in the space.

Owner Dana Trixie Flynn is insistent on a community feeling filled with love, which is a feeling you pick up the second you meet her.

Everyone is greeted by name when they enter the class, and attention is given to each as the instructors walk around to personally help each member. I started off a little shaky, since I have not taken a class in a few months, but I was immediately reassured by Flynn and coinstructor Jamo Mweo.

As the class continued, music from a local New Orleans musician filled the air, not the typical spa music I’ve heard in classes before.

This fun and upbeat energy definitely took the pressure off of wanting to make sure I did every position and move perfectly. There was even a dance circle as the artist played “Iko Iko” for the group. In fact, each class is accompanied by live music from a multitude of local artists. It not only allows guests to experience the art of a local musician they may not have

heard before, but it also puts a fun and relaxing feeling into the air.

Additionally, the sense of community and inclusion spills over into the price of the classes. The Church of Yoga is a non-profit and donation-based labor of love, where Flynn strongly believes that the students are more important than the money. Students can think of their donation as a way to pay it forward to the community, and those who may otherwise not be able to experience all the studio has to offer.

Though still in it’s infancy, the Church of Yoga is a promising new member of the community. Yoga is important to our lives and our health, with myriad studies being done and showing it’s ability to reduce stress, inflammation and even lower your blood pressure. With the many stressors 2017 has provided, I think it’s important we all take a trip to church. n cheryl gerber PHOTOGRAPH

cheryl gerber PHOTO

etc.

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WINNING ENTERTAINMENT AT THE RACE TRACK

948-1285, FGNO.com Everyone enjoys a day at the races, but the entertaining options available at The Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans are less well known. Event settings range from elegant to casual, reception-style to sit-down, with a choice of view - either the racetrack or downtown New Orleans. The Paddock can be adapted for a wedding ceremony or a reception. For groups of 25 or more, include your guests in a souvenir “Win, Place and Show” brochure.

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BEAUTY AT BELLINGRATH GARDENS & HOME

12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd, Theodore, AL, 251-973-2217, Bellingrath.org “The Gardens were my wife’s dream, and I want to live to see that dream come true.” Walter Bellingrath’s wish did come true, as did his wife’s Bessie. Together they created a 65-acre garden full of thousands of exquisite plants and flowers. First opened to the public in 1932, the estate is still an oasis of beauty and fun with programs for experienced gardeners, as well as children. It also provides a stunning venue for private events and boasts a rose garden, museum, rookery, café and gift shop.

By Mirella Cameran myneworleans.com JULY 2017

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Krauss

Before the Condos

By Errol Laborde

What comes to mind first in remembering the former Krauss Department Store are the chimes. In the early days of such stores there was a system of bells with the number of rings designating some staff member. If, for example, the manager was needed there might be three chimes that would send him scurrying to an in-house phone system. Other personnel would have different combinations.

At Krauss, chimes were like a symphony.

Just during the time of a ride up the escalator there might be several signals. By the last year of Krauss, which lasted from 1903 to 1997, chimes were extinct in most department stores, but not there.

Another throwback was the credit system. In the days before everyone carried credit cards a clerk would write up a charge slip. Then the slip would be put into a pneumatic tube system, sort of like what is still used at drive-through banks, to be whisked to some hidden away credit office, from which would come the verdict whether or not to approve the sale. The system, with its capsules racing from floor to floor, was both old fashioned yet somewhat jet-age. It certainly had style, more so then waiting for

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a computer to approve a credit card.

Krauss was locally owned to the very end, and that in itself was unusual as other hometown department stores had succumbed to national operators. It had a brief expansion with a suburban store at Lakeside Shopping Center, but that did not work out. Here fate probably intervened because it should have been written that there should only be one Krauss Department Store.

There were other quirks that added to its reputation. Krauss was known as THE place for buying fabrics. Many dresses made for balls or proms were home-stitched with Krauss’ cloth. It also had an impressive collection of ladies’ hats worthy of Easter Sunday or promenades along Canal Street, back when people still dressed to go downtown.

The Krauss experience frequently included a stop at the lunch counter on the mezzanine where the food (served on a Formica counter to customers perched on round red stools) always had a good reputation, especially for a department store.

What really gave the place its historic legacy were some of its customers from the early days. The other Canal Street depart-

ment stores were closer to the river; Krauss stood alone at Basin Street. It was the closest store to Storyville. Legends tell of the ladies of the red light district shopping at Krauss for lace, satin and other niceties. Many bordello bound gentlemen, some having arrived at the former nearby train station, might have stopped there too for that extra embellishment.

Storyville closed in 1917 (this year is the centennial) so Krauss was able to last for a long time without the bordello business just on its own style and inventory.

I recently attended a cocktail party held on what is now the pool deck of a building called the 1201 Canal Condominiums. It is the Krauss building converted to a chic residential property. From the deck I tried to envision the surrounding business district as it looked in Krauss’s day: There was the Roosevelt Hotel in the distance; the Canal Line streecars (then green rather than red); the skyline made jagged by bank towers; the river in the distance and the Saenger Theater, its marquee now more radiant than ever. Much has changed too; the old department stores Maison Blanche, Holmes and Sears are gone, though their buildings are now hotels. Other buildings, like Krauss, are nests for condominium dwellers. That’s not all bad. Having residents, and not just day-trippers, is good for the vitality of any downtown street.

I do wish though that those who live there could somehow know what Krauss used to be. It was a last-of-a-kind place that was suddenly taken away-- as though in a pneumatic tube. n

ARTHUR NEAD ILLUSTRATION